Law firm Clyde & Co breaks down barriers in the legal sector
Global law firm Clyde & Co becomes the latest major law firm to publish a Breaking Down Barriers report with the Purpose Coalition, highlighting its work to widen access to opportunity across the UK.
The report was launched in Parliament in partnership with the Purpose Coalition, mapping the firm’s impact against the Purpose Goals, a framework designed to identify and dismantle barriers to opportunity across British society.
It highlights Clyde & Co’s wide-ranging efforts to improve social mobility, diversity, equity and inclusion, both within the legal profession and the communities in which the firm operates. From early years’ parental policies to inclusive recruitment, pro bono support and environmental sustainability, the report showcases how the firm is embedding purpose throughout its global operations.
The report outlines Clyde & Co’s work across all 15 Purpose Goals, from supporting school outreach and mentoring through its LIFT and Bright Futures programmes, to pioneering fully paid 26-week parental leave regardless of gender. It also highlights its commitment to access to justice through partnerships with charities such as Not Beyond Redemption, and its use of pro bono legal advice clinics in areas with high unmet legal need.
Rt Hon Justine Greening, Chair of the Purpose Coalition, praised Clyde & Co’s leadership:
“This is a landmark report that demonstrates what purposeful business looks like in practice. In a sector which is often associated with traditional networks where many feel excluded, Clyde & Co’s commitment to opening up access to the legal profession – and ensuring people can get on, not just get in – is a fantastic example of how firms can act as real forces for good. It is making opportunity more accessible and creating lasting impact in the communities it serves.”
Nick Forbes CBE, Chair of the Breaking Down Barriers Commission, said:
“This is a powerful example of what it means to be a purpose-led law firm. Clyde & Co is not only building a more inclusive workplace, it is partnering with schools, communities and industry peers to help break down systemic barriers. Their work sets a benchmark for other professional services firms to follow.”
Matthew Kelsall, Chief Executive Officer at Clyde & Co, added:
“A diverse, inclusive and socially mobile legal profession creates better outcomes—for our people, and for our clients. This partnership with the Purpose Coalition reinforces our commitment to being a responsible business – one that reflects the communities we serve and helps unlock opportunity wherever talent exists.”
The publication also includes a set of recommendations for further action, including enhanced socioeconomic background tracking and deeper industry collaboration to expand the reach of initiatives across the legal sector.
The Purpose Coalition’s Breaking Down Barriers reports support organisations in aligning their social impact strategies with measurable goals, helping to deliver meaningful change.
You can see the full report here: Clyde & Co Breaking Down Barriers Report
