Law Society awards diversity access scholarship to 10 aspiring solicitors

Ten new students have been welcomed onto the Law Society’s Diversity Access Scheme (DAS) which supports aspiring lawyers facing social, educational, financial or personal obstacles to qualifying as a solicitor.

The DAS was established to improve social mobility and diversity in the legal profession, and has so far supported over 200 future lawyers on their career paths. It is backed by firms such as Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP and Withers LLP, alongside BPP University Law School, The University of Law and Nottingham Law School.

Students on the scheme will receive financial assistance in order to undertake the LPC, as well as high-quality work experience, a professional mentor and networking opportunities.

Law Society vice president David Greene said: “The solicitor profession needs to attract talent from the widest possible range of backgrounds to reflect the society it serves.

"Today, DAS alumni are thriving across the legal sector – in firms, in-house, in local authorities and in the social advice sector. The one thing they have in common is that they have all achieved these careers in the face of real challenges: homelessness, financial instability and disability, to name a few.

“I encourage any aspiring solicitor who is facing particular challenges on their way to qualification to consider applying for a place on the Diversity Access Scheme.”

Applications for the next cohort of Diversity Access Scheme awards will open in February 2020.