There’s one certain thing; COVID-19 had little effect on our profession. Practising solicitors’ numbers have actually increased over the last couple of years, and there are areas of law, such as employment law, which has seen a sharp increase in cases. With an expected increase in hiring in law firms in the coming year, we believe now, more than ever, is the time to focus on employment and education.

We all know the importance of Corporate Social Responsibility and ensuring we add value to the communities in which we work, and, in this industry, we certainly do our part. But I do question whether we are doing enough. I genuinely believe that if we work together as an industry to inspire talent from the grassroots, we will continue to progress forward and see sizeable numbers of new recruits.

There is so much we can do in our firms, from offering work experience to employing graduates and working with universities across the country to encourage the next generation of budding lawyers. And we all know that it brings about higher staff engagement and retention in addition.

In the last two years, our firm has helped 20 young people with work experience, delivered 15 lectures at universities and has been part of the Government’s Kickstart Scheme, which saw us take five local people on six-month paid placements to allow them to gain valuable experience in a busy law firm.

Working hard to attract people into our industry has always been something we have pledged to do. Seeing the students and young people who come to us flourish and gain confidence and experience makes it incredibly worthwhile.

As part of the kickstart scheme, we were visited by Boris Johnson, who commended us on our commitment to engaging with young people and encouraging them to consider law as their career. It is no mean feat when we’re up against other professions that can offer more flexible working patterns to combat burnout, and the logistics of moving into a more technologically focused way of working. We know our teams want more than just a good salary, and by concentrating on colleague engagement and creating a positive culture, we can attract and keep the best people.

We work in a great industry – one that is steeped in history and excitement. One that challenges us in dynamic and stimulating environments and allows us to engage with people daily. So, why wouldn’t we want to inspire the young people of tomorrow?

I, for one, am up for the challenge – are you?

Author: Adela Manzoor, Director and Solicitor at Radshaw Solicitors
E: adela@radshawsolicitos.com