Equality and diversity

We have produced information, guides and advice to help members and organisations promote equality and diversity. Recent guides include improving disability inclusion in the legal profession, menopause support and supporting employees with neurodiverse dependents.

There is also the opportunity to work in partnership with us in this area. To discuss this further, please contact diversity@lawscot.org.uk.

As the professional body for solicitors in Scotland, we have responsibilities to the profession, to the public, and as an employer.

To represent and protect these diverse groups, we recognise the need to:

• value the contribution from all who make up the population of Scotland
• take strength from the widest experience, knowledge and understanding it can access - both within and outwith our membership
• go beyond legal compliance by integrating diversity into all that we do
• promote the core values of diversity to the profession as a whole

We, alongside the legal profession, have various responsibilities in relation to equality and diversity covered by legislation and statutory codes. 

For example:

• as employers
• as a regulator of the profession
• as providers of 'goods and services' (to the public). 

We also have additional responsibilities under the Equality Act 2010 as a:

• 'public authority' in respect of our public functions
• service provider to the profession
• trade (membership) organisation
• qualifications body

You can view our key research in this area, covering the whole sector, specific groups such as minority ethnic solicitors, or specific issues like bullying.