Profiling the profession
30 Mar 06
The Society intends to launch a major research project to create a demographic profile of the profession and explore further equality-related issues
In late April the Society intends to launch a major research project to create a demographic profile of the profession and explore further issues around equality and the profession.
Over a year ago the Society carried out the Women in the Legal Profession project. This received a huge response, gained praise from the EOC and other outside agencies for addressing issues, and has meant the Society now has a hard evidence base as opposed to perception and supposition. Building on this success it now wants a full picture of the profession it serves and regulates.
Head of Diversity Neil Stevenson said: “We know you’re busy, you may not be a fan of questionnaires, and you don’t like some of the questions asked – we’re still asking you to help.” He claims there are seven good reasons why:
1. To continue to attract the brightest and best young people, the profession needs to ensure there are opportunities, that people understand who solicitors are, and that the profession markets itself as a career where merit brings rewards.
2. In order to work for you, the Society needs to understand you, and that means knowing something about who you are.
3. To maintain respect from clients, the public and policymakers the profession needs to make sure that it is accessible and viewed as a modern profession.
4. To make the best decisions through informed debate and taking account of a range of views, the Society needs to know what diverse skills, interests, and knowledge the profession can bring to the table.
5. To break down stereotypes – by 2011 the “average” lawyer will be young and female, yet the public perception is more “Rumple of the Bailey”.
6. To meet the Society’s legal commitments under the equalities legislation: non-compliance could cost in terms of PR and legal expense, and it’s you who would pay that cost.
7. To challenge people – some of the questions are personal, but the Society has to collect data on race, gender and disability to meet new public sector duties imposed (or to be imposed) on it, and does not want to shy away from certain areas, or risk perpetuating a taboo, by not asking questions relating to all the areas covered by equality legislation.
Stevenson adds: “So, when this questionnaire hits your desk, please complete it and return it in complete confidence to the independent company who will be collating the responses and passing the Society only statistical data and anonymous feedback. We’re grateful for your help.”
Anyone who wishes to learn more about the project, offer feedback on the Society’s strategy, or become more involved in the work of the Society should contact: diversity@lawscot.org.uk, 0131 226 7411, text-phone 0131 476 8359, or write to the Head of Diversity at the Society’s usual address.