Developed through consultation with members and wider stakeholders, the strategy identifies three strategic objectives under the headings of ‘access to the profession’, ‘building a successful career’ and ‘culture respecting diversity’.

It builds on the Society’s previous diversity and equality plan, published in 2022.

The Society’s goal is an “equal, diverse, inclusive and equitable solicitor profession in Northern Ireland, which is open and accessible to all, and reflective of the society solicitors serve”.

Lorraine Keown, chair of the Law Society’s human rights and equality committee, said: “The new strategy is a positive start and a recognition that longer-term effort is required to address the many ongoing challenges and to achieve meaningful improvement in the diversity, equality and equity of the solicitor profession in Northern Ireland.”