The scheme, Project Rise, will start with the September 2024 cohort, which is currently being recruited. It stems from LDD and Cardiff Business School research that found disability has been largely overlooked in diversity and inclusion initiatives.
However, the initiative will also benefit trainees with caring or parenting responsibilities or other commitments, and is supported by diversity platform Aspiring Solicitors.
Project Rise is calling for part-time training to be implemented across the profession, either for training contracts or for the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE).
Osborne Clarke partner Alexandra Gower said: ‘It's so important that we recognise the need for flexibility and can accommodate a variety of working patterns. Doing this will increase the pool of talent available to our sector.’
