Shoosmiths – diversity and equality
| Company name | Shoosmiths (Law firm) |
|---|---|
| Sector | Legal |
| Number of employees | 1,239 |
| Type of workforce | Office workers |
What issue was the organisation facing?
Shoosmiths has grown rapidly over the last 6 years, including the opening of two new offices in Birmingham and Manchester. It has been essential to underpin this growth with a workplace environment in which staff are valued and appreciated, and are treated at all times with respect and dignity.
What action did the organisation take?
- Ensure staff are involved in decisions, are able to have a say, are invited to open forums to air their views, have the opportunity to “get involved” should they wish, and know their views are being listed to and as appropriate actioned are also foundation blocks of a healthy work place.
- An area for prayer was provided for employees after requests from a staff survey.
- The provision of halal meat is now provided from the vending machines, after the Facilities Department provided spoke to the catering company to arrange this.
What has been the impact of implementing interventions?
Shoosmiths is an equal opportunities employer and are proud of the diversity within their workforce. A survey undertaken by the Black Solicitors’ Network which measured diversity in the top 100 law firms, Shoosmiths emerged as the top ranking firm. The people Shoosmiths recruit and promote are selected on merit and suitability, and are not discriminated against because of gender, race, origin, background, religion, marital status, sexual orientation, disability or age.
Shoosmiths have successfully attracted many new partners including some very senior lawyers and partners from other law firms. They continue to receive CVs from lawyers who would like to join them, both direct and via recruitment agents.