Apply now!Diversity at Freshfields
Freshfields believe that diversity is not only just the right thing to do, it’s also vital for their success. The firm believes that they are only successful with a diverse, inclusive workforce, where everyone can achieve their potential.
Freshfields believe that diversity is not only just the right thing to do, it’s also vital for their success. The firm believes that they are only successful with a diverse, inclusive workforce, where everyone can achieve their potential.
Freshfields’ diversity and inclusion activities fall under six streams: Firstly, social mobility. The firm is a strong believer of the fact that your socioeconomic status should not be a barrier to success. Thus, they have partnered with the Social Mobility Foundation providing mentorship, work shadowing and skills sessions to students from low socioeconomic backgrounds. Furthermore, during the recruitment process, they use Rare Contextual Recruitment, which considers a candidates’ achievements alongside the barriers they face.
Secondly, the firm is passionate about increasing representation among different races and ethnicities. Freshfields’ Black Affinity Network provides a space for black lawyers to network and share their experience, with an adjacent group of lawyers who view themselves as allies. Furthermore, the firm launched an award-winning Stephen Lawrence Scholarship Scheme, to address the under-representation of black men from low-income households. Many of the scholars have accepted training contracts with the firm.
Furthermore, Freshfields are keen to ensure a gender balance across their firm. They have a 12-month global sponsorship programme for female lawyers, providing them with coaching and mentoring sessions. Freshfields have even launched a commitment to gender equality, which encourages employees to take practical, everyday actions towards equality.
Freshfields strives to provide a welcoming environment for their LGBTQ+ employees. They have a close relationship with Stonewall, and contributed to the UK’s Parliamentary Group of Global LGBT rights, hosting the launch of the report in their London office. The firm also has an active global LGBTQ+ network, Halo, with Halo Champions for allies.
The firm is committed to being a disability inclusive employer. Applicants who have a disability are frequently provided with adjustments, to ensure an equal playing field. Furthermore, the firm partners with the Business Disability Forum, to ensure they are disability smart. They also host a range of disability-focussed events for graduates.
Finally, Freshfields are dedicated to mental wellbeing, and reducing the stigma behind mental health difficulties. They have a fully trained Mental Health Support team, who have the skills to recognise, support and provide guidance to those dealing with mental health issues.
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