Diversity, equity and inclusion is still the most topical and important subject of debate across the legal sector, specifically in relation to under-representation of Black lawyers.
October is Black History Month, and fittingly Higgs LLP continues to work with industry campaigners and thought leaders to bring awareness to, and help tackle this very issue. Though the hard work isn’t encapsulated to just within October, the firm is raising awareness throughout the year.
Actions speak louder than words and unless law firms actively engage in trying to bring about change progress will continue to be slow. I know we will continue to build long term relationships with Birmingham Black Lawyers, The Tyro Lawyer and Birmingham Law Society’s REACH sub-committee and seek to create further meaningful opportunities.
Sophie Wardell
People Director
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) reports that there has been a steady but slow increase in diversity in law firms since 2021, but still only 3% of lawyers across the sector are Black.
In July, Higgs proudly supported an open day in conjunction with The Tyro Lawyer for college and sixth form students – what better way to learn about the legal profession than from a leading law firm, sharing career and workplace skills advice whilst aiming to break down the barriers around the law. Higgs also supports the Diversity and Inclusion Scheme which is run by the Birmingham Law Society, launched to drive improvements in diversity in the legal sector.
Working closely with Birmingham Black Lawyers (BBL), Higgs’ Black History Month celebration at its flagship office in Brierley Hill in the Black Country, saw attendees from across the firm come together and hear more about the ongoing challenges. The firm welcomed Tamina Greaves and Kishma Bolaji, Co-Chairs of Birmingham Black Lawyers spoke passionately about their own challenges in the law and why the BBL is now such a vital support network for black lawyers at any stage of their career.
Looking ahead, Higgs is thrilled to be partnering with BBL to launch a new mentoring programme, “Higgs Inside Track” Diversity Mentoring Programme is being launched in this month and is aimed at providing mentoring support from those at Higgs, but also the invaluable opportunity to shadow lawyers in their day-to-day work. We are also keen to ensure that those on the scheme appreciate the importance of networking and we will be inviting the mentees to a networking event over the next six months.
Tamina and Kishma commented, “We are thrilled to support Higgs' Inside Track Diversity Mentoring Programme, providing invaluable support and guidance to students from ethnic minority backgrounds navigating the terrain of law. Many of our members are first generation graduates or the first in their families to pursue a career in law, so having structured guidance and an opportunity to build relationships with practising professionals will boost their confidence and play an important role in their success.
“We are proud of our partnership with Higgs LLP and commend their efforts to create a level playing field for those entering the profession.”
Higgs LLP is deep-rooted in the Black Country – its heritage is what drives the firm’s authenticity, passion and dedication, which has been passed down through generations, creating the unique ‘Higgs quality’ that sets it apart.
