Linklaters wins Silver at the UK Social Mobility Awards 2022

Linklaters received the Silver Award for ‘Community Programme of the Year’ at the sixth annual UK Social Mobility Awards (SOMOs) – the first national awards dedicated to raising awareness of social mobility by sharing the innovative approaches of those working to improve it.

Linklaters was recognised for its partnership with Eastside Young Leaders Academy (EYLA) as part of the firm’s Race Action Plan. Linklaters is committed to leveraging its expertise and resources to delivering positive social impact. Having worked in partnership with EYLA since 2014, Linklaters has provided funding and support to enable EYLA to establish a new Preparation for Employment Programme for over 300 young people – from some of the most socio-economically disadvantaged communities in London. EYLA’s primary focus is to improve the life chances of disadvantaged and marginalised Black and minority boys and girls who are at risk of educational underachievement.

Rebecca Leake, Global Corporate Responsibility Senior Advisor at Linklaters, said:

“We’re absolutely delighted to have received this Award. Through the Preparation for Employment Programme we’ve managed to engage over 300 students from some of the most socio-economically disadvantaged communities in London. A big thank you Eastside Young Leaders Academy and to all of the Linklaters volunteers that have made the programme the success it is!”

Commenting on EYLA’s partnership with Linklaters, Ray Lewis, Co-founder and CEO of EYLA:

“The Linklaters and EYLA partnership is a fantastic model of synergy between the corporate world and the grassroots community sector. This was evidenced at our recent visit to Linklaters as our young leaders and Linklaters actively engaged in speed networking. Soft skills development and career insights are essential in preparing this future workforce for the world of work, ensuring clear pathways to future employment.”

Tunde Banjoko OBE, Founder of The UK Social Mobility Awards, added:

“The UK Social Mobility Awards is a vehicle to raise awareness of social mobility and showcases the individuals and organisations who are dedicated to its advancement. The number and quality of entries we received for this year’s awards is an indication of the increasing significance of social mobility to UK business. I would like to congratulate all the inspiring organisations and individuals who took home a trophy this year. All the UK Social Mobility Awards finalists are making a tangible difference to social mobility in this country and this recognition is extremely well-deserved.”