Linklaters UK Social Mobility Awards finalists

Linklaters has been named as a finalist across three categories in the UK Social Mobility Awards (SOMOs) 2021, recognising organisations and individuals making strides in advancing social mobility. The firm has been shortlisted in the Innovation, Community Programme of the Year and Rising Star categories.

The firm’s Social Impact work has been recognised in the Innovation and Community Programme of the Year categories for transforming its Business Foundation Course work experience programme from in-person to online during the Covid-19 pandemic – supporting five times the number of young people from across the UK, including those in social mobility cold spots. Working collaboratively with schools and charity partners, the firm was able to reach young people most in need in areas that have high levels of deprivation and less access to opportunities. 

Alice Shaw, Associate in the firm’s Dispute Resolution practice, a Rising Star finalist, has also been recognised for her significant contributions to advancing the cause of social mobility. Alice is an integral and influential member of Linklaters’ Social Mobility Network, which aims to ensure an inclusive culture within the firm for individuals from socially diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds.

Organised by social justice charity, Making The Leap, the SOMOs were the first national awards dedicated to social mobility, celebrating best practice and efforts that have made an outstanding contribution.

Linklaters is committed to ensuring that personal background, social identity and socio-economic circumstances are not barriers to success, with social mobility one of the global priorities within the firm’s Diversity and Inclusion strategy.