Law firms lead the charge in social mobility rankings
updated on 17 October 2025
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Law firms continue to lead in the Social Mobility Foundation’s annual Employer Index, with 30 firms securing spots in the top 75. The annual ranking recognises employers that are committed to building more inclusive, representative and successful organisations.
The Index, compiled by the Social Mobility Foundation, evaluates employers across eight key areas, including outreach, recruitment, progression and retention. It aims to highlight organisations that actively dismantle barriers for individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and foster inclusive workplace cultures.
Browne Jacobson LLP retained its position at the top of the list for the second year in a row, followed by Linklaters LLP and Clarion Solicitors in third and fourth place, respectively.
Senior partner at Browne Jacobson, Caroline Green, said: "Being ranked number one law firm for the fifth consecutive year as well as the leading law firm for social mobility demonstrates our unwavering commitment to breaking down barriers and creating genuine opportunities.”
Other law firms in the top 10 include Addleshaw Goddard in fifth, Osborne Clarke LLP in seventh, Norton Rose Fulbright LLP in eighth and DLA Piper UK LLP in 10th, showcasing a strong presence from both national and international legal employers.
Managing partner of Addleshaw Goddard, Andrew Johnston, said: “This is about widening the gate, not lowering the barrier. Opening up access to the legal profession and making our recruitment processes as inclusive as possible is key to ensuring we welcome a diverse pipeline of talented people into our firm who reflect our clients and the communities in which we operate.”
CEO of the Social Mobility Foundation, Sarah Atkinson, praised the legal sector’s efforts but urged broader action: “Talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. Too many young people are being held back from reaching their potential because of their background. That’s unfair for them, and in a country facing a skills shortage, it’s bad for all of us.”
Atkinson added: “We need more employers to step up their game, enter the Index, and take action to improve social mobility. And we need the government to follow the lead of this year’s forward-thinking entrants and make all large employers report socioeconomic data for their workforces.”
