Introduced in 2023 as part of a legacy project to mark the Society’s centenary year, the scheme aims to broaden access to the profession by supporting trainee solicitors without the means to finance their place at the Institute of Professional Legal Studies (IPLS).

Following the success of the pilot initiative, the Society has committed to funding the bursary again and is now inviting applications.

Law Society president Darren Toombs said: “The bursary scheme underscores our commitment to finding new ways to support those from disadvantaged backgrounds who wish to become part of the solicitor profession in Northern Ireland.”

The first recipients of bursary awards, Chiara Clarke and Sorcha Davidson, joined the president at the launch of the scheme at Law Society House.

Commenting on her bursary award in 2023, Ms Clarke said: “I was so delighted to have been awarded the bursary which gave me the financial support and reassurance to allow me to undertake the IPLS course.”

Ms Davidson added: “The bursary award opened doors for me as a single mum with a young son with a disability. I have always had the passion to become a solicitor but not the financial means and being awarded the bursary changed my life.”

The 2024 bursary scheme is open to those who have a conditional place at the IPLS; secured a training contract; and are ready to start the trainee solicitor programme in September 2024.

More information is available from the Law Society website.