Equality and Diversity Training

Background

The Law Society of Scotland is the professional body for over 12,000 Scottish solicitors, and has approximately 120 members of staff. The Society’s commitment to advancing equality is reflected in the provision of Equality Standards, which support members in complying with their legal responsibilities and drive innovation in the profession.

The Society commissioned us to develop and deliver equality and diversity training for all staff in order to emphasise the impact they could have on the profession as well as on the organisational culture.

Approach

Staff had demonstrated an existing high level of awareness of equality and diversity, and we avoided a detailed look at the legislation itself. Instead, to increase impact, we made the equality and diversity training highly interactive and relevant to the legal profession. This work was about increasing confidence, and allowing staff the time to reflect on their particular role and linking their role with wider benefits of good practice.

Process

An assessment of current awareness took place, and we identified “hot spots” – areas of relevance and interest which were to be promoted during the equality and diversity raining sessions. Case studies were developed which explored attracting diversity to the legal profession, and evaluating conduct issues. Draft materials were submitted to the client with notes, and client feedback enabled the production of highly relevant, tailored equality and diversity training.