Bond Dickinson has achieved a Gold status in the Law Society Diversity and Inclusion Charter.

Designed by the Law Society in 2009, the charter was established to help firms turn their commitment to diversity and inclusion into positive, practical action for their businesses, staff and clients.

Bond Dickinson achieved the coveted Gold status by successfully demonstrating its practices, policies and procedures aimed at creating a diverse and inclusive culture across the firm. For two years Bond Dickinson held a Silver Status before the firm had to resubmit earlier this year.

Paula Dillon, Partner and Board Member at Bond Dickinson said: "We're delighted to have achieved the Gold status, which is a real endorsement of the work we have been doing and the huge progress that has been made since our last submission.

"Diversity and Inclusion is a key priority for us and our aim is to create a diverse and inclusive culture for our staff and to attract and retain the very best people. Our Diversity and Inclusion Group as well as our Board agree priorities annually to make sure that Bond Dickinson remains a supportive work place, that acknowledges and celebrates difference, and where our people are happiest being their real selves."

Bond Dickinson employs more than 1,100 staff across its eight offices in the UK. The firm will soon become Womble Bond Dickinson as it completes its transatlantic combination with US law firm Womble Carlyle.