New interns join Law Society as part of #10000BlackInterns initiative
updated on 10 June 2025
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A total of 10 interns have started a six-week paid internship at the Law Society of England and Wales as part of the #10000BlackInterns initiative, which aims to increase diversity across multiple industries, including law.
Running from 9 June to 25 July, the programme provides Black and mixed-Black heritage individuals with paid work experience and “a sustainable cycle of mentorship and sponsorship”. The initiative seeks to break systemic barriers by fostering key networks and experiences for emerging Black professionals.
Law Society President Richard Atkinson was “delighted” to welcome the new interns: “The interns have made a positive contribution to many areas of the business. They have been highly motivated, brought fresh perspectives and created a positive feeling amongst colleagues.”
Atkinson added: “I look forward to working with our interns as they embark on an exciting programme, including visits to the Royal Courts of Justice and the Inner Temple, alongside developing key professional skills they can take forward in their careers.”
Previous Law Society intern Renee Jean-Low, who’s since secured a permanent job at the organisation, said: “Taking part in the #10000BlackInterns programme provided me with invaluable work experience and has opened doors for me to work in the legal sector.
“After my internship ended, the 10,000 Black Interns programme continued to provide me with training and advice and even the chance to go to events, which have helped me to further hone my employability skills and keep building my professional network.”
The initiative addresses the need to improve representation in the legal profession as only 2% of solicitors with practising certificates identified as Black, Black British, Caribbean or African, according to the Law Society’s 2023 annual statistics report.
In light of this challenge, Atkinson said: “The profession must continue to reflect on how we can welcome new voices and experiences into our businesses and ensure retention and progress.”
