Clyde & Co talent program fostering social mobility and diversity in law

Our Associate Partner, Clyde & Co’s LIFT (Legal Insight for Future Talent) program aims to break down barriers to legal/commercial careers for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. By offering inclusive, high-quality opportunities, LIFT provides access to insight and development that helps participants pursue legal careers.

The program specifically targets individuals who may feel shut out of development opportunities due to their socio-economic status, geographic location, or other personal circumstances.

Providing corporate insight and experience

The heart of the LIFT (Legal Insight for Future Talent) initiative is the LIFT insight weeks—a five-day hybrid program that combines virtual workshops, mentoring, and in-person networking. Participants receive above-living wage pay, with all expenses covered. They also benefit from one-year mentoring to support their career development.

The program's hybrid structure makes it accessible to participants across the UK, with in-person sessions in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, and Edinburgh. The initiative welcomes graduates, career changers, and first-time job seekers, with no age limits.

The program helps participants:

Improve application skills: Gain confidence and ability to submit stronger applications.
Identify career interests: Explore both legal and business services to clarify their career goals.
Enhance networking confidence: Engage in professional networking with support and coaching.
Collaborate effectively: Work in teams on real legal casework, culminating in presentations to firm partners. full

See our DEI Blueprint for more information on steps to achieve our goal of making our industry one of the most diverse and representative

DEI Blueprint

62%

were the first generation in their family to attend university

57%

received school meals

65%

worked during university

Feedback was overwhelmingly positive

98% found the Insight Week valuable for their career.
97% would now consider applying to Clyde & Co.

To learn more about Clyde and Co’s LIFT Programme visit LIFT Early Careers.

FosteringSocialMobilityDiversityTalentProgramme

It is great to see our members and Associate Partners, like Clyde & Co, championing initiatives such as the LIFT program. This proactive approach to fostering social mobility and diversity in the legal sector offers valuable lessons for all industries, including insurance and long-term savings. We are committed to improving social mobility in our sector because it not only enhances the talent pool but also ensures a more equitable and inclusive industry for all.