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Diversity, equity & inclusion
Inclusion starts with people
We empower our people by valuing difference, fostering inclusion, and prioritising wellbeing—because when individuals feel seen and supported, great things happen
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A culture where everyone counts

We’re not here to tick boxes. We’re building a firm where fairness, representation and opportunity are at the core of how we work—and where wellbeing is a fundamental part of our culture, not an afterthought. Our DEI strategy is driven by three pillars: Accountability, Opportunity, and Community.

Each pillar reflects our commitment to lead with empathy, to open doors with clarity, and to make space for personality. That means creating environments where people feel safe to be themselves, supported to grow, and empowered to thrive. From governance to our Shadow Board, client partnerships to grassroots networks, we turn these values into action.

Because when people are free to express who they are, inclusion becomes real and impact follows.

Driving change
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Diversity, equity and inclusion are everyone’s business. Our strategy ensures that responsibility sits where it should: with leaders, teams, and every individual at Shoosmiths: real people, bringing real perspectives.
Sophie Cowen
Head of Responsible Business
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Impact report FY25
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Annual impact report
A review of the progress and impact we have made during 2024-2025 in respect of our clients, our people and our communities
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Accountability: Change starts at the top

We’ve built accountability into our governance. DEI is a standing agenda item at Board level, and our Shadow Board brings bold, diverse thinking into every conversation.

We design support around real lives, from co-parent leave to menopause, because clarity and empathy matter.

Embedding inclusion into our processes is driven by collaboration between Business Services and our people teams. By aligning operational delivery with inclusive practices—from recruitment and onboarding to everyday decision-making—this partnership ensures our commitments are reflected in how we work, not just what we say.

And with data from Pirical, we track our progress and share it openly, publishing detailed pay gap reports that reflect our commitment to transparency and trust.

Where belonging happens

We’ve created spaces where people feel seen, heard and supported. Our internal networks (Balance, Embrace, Proud, Unique, and Mental Health Champions) help us share experiences, connect, and grow together.

We also look outward. Whether it's teaming up with VWG or Virgin Media O2, or backing local causes, we work with clients and communities to deliver impact beyond the firm.

Because belonging isn’t just a policy, it’s a feeling. And it starts by letting personality shine.

The team making it happen
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