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Framework Step 1 – Establish purpose Step 2 – Develop a plan Step 3 – Ensure… Terminology

Diversity and inclusion framework

Often there is a leap to action on diversity and inclusion (D&I) – a sense of urgency to ‘do something’. This can lead to activity that is reactive to immediate pressures, short lived or not properly resourced. This framework encourages you to take a systematic approach and embed D&I in a way that has a lasting impact.

Aim of the framework

This framework guides you through three steps to develop and deliver a strategic approach and action plan. We have included an action plan template, as well as links to additional guidance and resources for more detailed help. If you are already taking action, it will help you review and identify any gaps or areas for ongoing improvement.

A group of diverse colleagues around a desk.

Step 1. Establish purpose – why you need to act

A group of diverse colleagues discussing and writing on a board.

Step 2. Develop a plan – what actions will you take

Two colleagues sit together having a conversation.

Step 3. Ensure performance – how actions are delivered and lead to change

Impact stories

We are gathering impact stories from across the legal sector to share learning of what has worked and help others plan actions.

Focus on autism

Herbert Smith Freehills shares how the firm is taking steps to better reflect neurodiversity in its workforce.
Read Herbert Smith Freehills' impact story

Workplace adjustments

BCLP introduced a disability passporting scheme to help employees feel more confident at work.
Read BCLP's impact story

Increasing inclusion

Clifford Chance adopted a campaigning approach that has dramatically increased people’s reported sense of inclusion.
Read Clifford Chance's impact story

Black Talent Programme

Stephenson Harwood shares how it increased representation of Black and ethnic minority colleagues.
Read Stephenson Harwood's impact story

Promoting gender equity

Osborne Clarke outline their approach to increasing the representation of women on their board and closing their pay gap.
Read Osborne Clarke's impact story

Establishing a new culture

Following a merger in 2020, Moore Barlow set about establishing a new culture, taking the best from both legacy firms.
Read Moore Barlow's impact story

Disability inclusive recruitment

Irwin Mitchell set out to actively address its recruitment practices, with a view to making the firm more inclusive and equitable for disabled candidates.
Read Irwin Mitchell's impact story
Submit a D&I impact story
We are keen to share examples of best practice that actually worked. Get in touch with the team to share your impact story.
Two colleagues sat together discussing a document.

Action plan template

Use this simple action plan template to start planning the actions you will take and how you will monitor their progress.

Download the action plan template
Three colleagues stand together smiling and talking.

Terminology

Being clear in the language we use is key to building a shared understanding of what we are aiming to achieve.

Learn about D&I terminology
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This page was printed on 09/05/2025 and the up-to-date version can be found online at https://www.lawsociety.org.uk/topics/diversity-and-inclusion-framework.