June 2023 marks the four year anniversary of the Women in Law pledge, launched by the Law Society in partnership with the Bar Council of England and Wales and the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx) in June 2019. The pledge was created to bring gender equality to the forefront of the conversation.
Women now make up 53% of those practising in the profession. However, just 18% of women working in private practice are partners, compared to 40% of men, and only a third of partners in the legal sector are women. At the intersections of identity, the disparity women face in the legal sector is even more pronounced.
The current 50 pledge signatories have committed to ensuring accountability for gender diversity and inclusion, as well as tackling sex discrimination, bullying and sexual harassment with their organisations.
By signing up to the pledge, you are committing to setting high level targets to make a difference for gender equality either within your organisation, or as an advocate, and champion, for change.
What is the Pledge?
By signing up for the pledge, you or your organisation is committing to:
- supporting the progression of women into senior roles in the profession by focusing on retention and promotion opportunities
- setting clear plans and targets around gender equality and diversity for your organisation
How do I sign up for the pledge?
To commit to the pledge, visit the Law Society’s Women in Law Pledge page, download the submission form and return via email to the diversity and inclusion team at diversityteam@lawsociety.org.uk.
