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31 October 2023
The leading national public law firm Sharpe Pritchard, has been ranked 51st in the Social Mobility Employer Index 2023 by The Social Mobility Foundation, excelling in data collection to support evidence based decision making, attraction and routes to employment.
Specialising in public sector law with clients including local authorities, housing groups and energy and transport, Sharpe Pritchard has made significant progress moving from last year’s ranking of 63rd.
The Index is the leading authority on employer-led social mobility. Through rigorous assessment, it highlights employers taking initiative and championing social mobility in the workplace. It also identifies areas for improvement.
Its central mission is to create equity in “who gets in, who gets on, and who belongs in the workplace”.
Published yearly, the Index features major employers across a variety of sectors, including the Cabinet Office, the BBC, and the Bank of England.
Sharpe Pritchard was praised for its diverse routes to employment, supported by a scheme to cover travel expenses for prospective staff. Entry points include successful outreach work with young people, internships and a range of graduate schemes to include a graduate solicitor apprenticeship programme.
Karen Senior, HR Manager at Sharpe Pritchard, said: “At Sharpe Pritchard, we want to see people thrive. We pride ourselves on identifying potential and nurturing talent, for the benefit of our clients and our incredible team.
“This means encouraging people from all backgrounds to join us and recognising non-traditional routes into the workplace.”
In addition to its accessibility, Sharpe Pritchard has continued to be an advocate for the next generation of solicitors.
At the core of the firm’s social mobility programme is targeted outreach work, including a recent trainee insight session for Clapton Girls’ Academy, and Edmonton County School’s virtual careers fair.
The firm was recognised in the Index for its work experience provision for students from low-income socioeconomic backgrounds, partnering with PRIME & The Sutton Trust as well as its ongoing work with its Charity Partner, Reach out to Kids (ROK),
Praised for its forward-thinking approach to recruitment, Sharpe Pritchard also received recognition for its accountability and advocacy at board level, a key indicator that social mobility is integral to the firm’s decision-making.
This approach has brought about the firm’s dedicated Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, forum to drive social mobility initiatives.
The forum currently comprises 16 representatives from across firm, with an allocated budget and sponsorship from Senior Partner, Justin Mendelle, and Chief Operating Officer, Nadia Biles Davies.
To support its visibility and status, the Forum is embedded into the firm’s business strategy and governance.
Justin Mendelle, Senior Partner at Sharpe Pritchard, said: “It’s an honour to be recognised among some of the largest employers nationally – a testament to our team’s continued commitment to social mobility.
“Sharpe Pritchard is a place for individuals and teams to thrive, regardless of background. By creating an inclusive environment, from new starters to senior management, we’re delivering support where it’s needed most.
“We’re also ensuring that our clients continue to benefit from industry-leading expertise, with the engagement, innovation and decision-making that results from a socially mobile team.”
