Diversity Pathways in Law: A Look at Emerging Access Schemes

Fieldfisher: The Diversity Access Scheme

Fieldfisher's Diversity Access Scheme, delivered in partnership with Peloton, is a paid two-week programme for underrepresented law students. The firm positions the scheme as part of its commitment to building an inclusive workforce and breaking down barriers to entry.

Participants gain first-hand exposure to legal work, attend social events, and observe trainees' day-to-day responsibilities. Before the scheme begins, students attend preparatory workshops and are paired with a mentor, often a qualified solicitor, who supports them throughout. Applicants must be on track for a 2:1 and come from an underrepresented background, including minority ethnic communities or state-educated students.

Clyde and Co: LIFT – Legal Insight for Future Talent

Clyde & Co recently launched LIFT, a paid one-week programme designed to give students with limited exposure to the legal profession fair access. The scheme covers all expenses to reduce economic barriers and is designed to be accessible.

The programme delivers three days virtually through workshops, panel discussions, and work shadowing, while two days take place in person at the firm's office. LIFT focuses on personal development, mentoring and commercial awareness. The virtual element supports students in remote locations or those with additional responsibilities, such as part-time work.

There are no grade requirements—instead, the application process centres on individual potential. The scheme offers two strands: LIFT Social Mobility and LIFT Black Heritage, widening the pool of eligible applicants.

Government Diversity Summer Scheme

The Government's Diversity Summer Scheme offers a one-week insight into the work of government lawyers for undergraduates and graduates from underrepresented backgrounds. Students attend talks, workshops and sessions designed to illustrate the nature of public sector legal work.

The scheme has partnered with Aspiring Solicitors and the Social Mobility Foundation, and these organisations allocate places, as well as direct applications. This route provides valuable exposure to government law, which is often competitive and difficult to access.

DWF Ethnic Minority Programme

DWF's Ethnic Minority Programme supports candidates from Black, Asian, or minority ethnic backgrounds through mentoring and skills sessions before a paid two-week work experience placement. Applicants complete an online form, a video interview, and an assessment centre. Successful candidates are considered for a training contract at any DWF location.

Participants undertake live legal work, collaborate on group projects, attend practice group presentations and join social events to build networks. To apply, candidates must have a BME background, not have secured a training contract, and be able to commence one in the relevant year.

This programme offers a more targeted alternative to traditional vacation schemes, which are often highly competitive.

Conclusion

These initiatives demonstrate a growing commitment to fostering inclusivity and expanding access to legal careers. By offering structured work experience, mentoring, and financial support, firms help underrepresented students gain exposure that is often difficult to secure through traditional routes. While more firms could adopt similar programmes, the schemes outlined here represent meaningful progress towards a more diverse and representative legal profession.