Widening Participation – DiversCity A focus on increasing lesbian, gay, bisexual & transgender (LGBT) graduates into the legal sector Claire England – Inclusivity Manager Berwin Leighton Paisner

What is DiversCity? A unique recruitment event aimed at raising awareness of pursuing a legal career in the City amongst LGBT students Includes ongoing mentoring Aims: Forum to showcase successful experiences of LGBT lawyers Dispel any misconceptions young aspiring LGBT lawyers might have Attract LGBT candidates to the profession and build a pipeline of diverse talent Provide an opportunity to build networks Ensure the profession continues to strengthen as an LGBT friendly environment

Business context Law is a traditional profession Perceived as less inclusive by the LGBT community Criticised for lack of diversity Growing importance of diversity – need to diversify our employee base

Origins Berwin Leighton Paisner & Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF) had active LGBT groups and a passion for diversity More would be achieved through collaboration Through BLP & HSF networks contacted other firms to get involved 6 firms in the first year (2010) 11 firms now involved (2015 – 5 th annual event) 6 further firms keen to join

Outcomes Event attendees were able to: Combat any misconceptions Gain confidence Receive advice on job applications & skills sessions to prepare them for what is a highly sought after career Learn to deal with their sexual/gender identification in a formal work setting Build up their networks

Evidence of Impact NB: a little early to tell – due to long lead time – at any point the sector is recruiting for graduates to start two years later 78% of attendees strongly agreed that on the basis of attending the event they feel confident about pursuing the career 90% of 2011 event attendees went on to apply to at least one sponsoring firm The number of attendees that are now going on to receive job offers is increasing year on year

Questions?