Better Business / Member news
Burges Salmon becomes founding member of UWE Futures
Burges Salmon is a member of the Bristol24/7 Better Business network.
Bristol based law firm Burges Salmon have proudly announced their role as a founding member of UWE Futures, a groundbreaking collaboration between the University of the West of England (UWE) and leading law firms in the region. The initiative aims to enhance opportunities for black, asian, and minority ethnic (BAME) students by offering a legal services work experience and mentoring program.
In partnership with Osborne Clarke, Clarke Willmott, and Simmons & Simmons, UWE Futures has introduced a paid one week internship for final year UWE undergraduate BAME students. The program also includes mentoring support from January to graduation in September, followed by guaranteed job interviews or extended internships with participating firms.
The initiative addresses the historical underrepresentation of BAME individuals in Bristol’s legal sector. Burges Salmon, Osborne Clarke, and Clarke Willmott collectively provide 16 placements across various business teams, covering areas such as people, change management, marketing, and risk. Additionally, Simmons & Simmons will contribute by offering employability skills development to all participants.
Sarah Grabham, deputy head of UWE Bristol’s College of Business and Law, expressed pride in the university’s diverse student population and emphasised the commitment to supporting students throughout their academic journey.
Alice Bretherton, Chief People Officer at Burges Salmon, highlighted the significance of providing meaningful work experience and mentoring support to UWE Bristol students, aiming to address underrepresentation in Bristol’s legal sector.
Tim Simmonds, partner and chief operating officer at Osborne Clarke, underlined the firm’s commitment to increasing representation in business services teams and regional offices. The initiative aligns with their Race Action Plan, launched in March 2023, focusing on recruiting ethnic minority talent.
Clarke Willmott’s director of HR, Daniel Jones, emphasised the importance of collective action to change the narrative, open doors to historically underrepresented groups, and unlock the best talent. The UWE Futures program is seen as a crucial step towards achieving these goals and making a lasting impact on the Bristol legal market.
This story is from a member of Bristol24/7’s Better Business Network. Better Business was set up to help Bristol’s businesses meet, collaborate, raise their profile and drive positive change in the local area.
To learn more or to get involved, click here or email partnerships@bristol247.com today.
Main photo: Burges Salmon
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