The Law Society has signed a pledge to become an ally of the DisAbility Legal Network.

The network was set up as an independent body in 2021, after discussions hosted by the Law Society with trainees, solicitors, and company secretaries.

It aims to promote disability inclusion in the legal sector, and to give members an opportunity to build their professional networks.

Increasing awareness

The Law Society says that its signature, which is in line with its policy on gender, equality, diversity and inclusion (GEDI), underlines its commitment to increasing disability awareness, embracing inclusive and accessible workplaces, and facilitating opportunities for networking.

The Law Society has pledged to:

• Help in bringing about a greater understanding and awareness of disability in the legal sector, such as access to courses offered by Law Society Professional Training,
• Support members seeking to find networking opportunities and make professional connections, and
• Improve accessibility for its staff, trainee solicitors, members of the legal profession and others making use of its digital and in-house services, attending Law Society events or courses, and visiting its workplaces.

The Law Society’s Technology Committee has a list of 12 software tools that can support inclusion in law firms.