Contributors
Womble Bond Dickinson's (WBD) Disability Network has been shortlisted for the Outstanding Ability Network of the Year award at the inaugural Diversity Network Awards.
The awards aim to celebrate, showcase and amplify the amazing work done by employee resource groups in promoting Diversity and Inclusion across various sectors and industries, and recognise the efforts and achievements of networks that support different dimensions of diversity, such as gender, ethnicity, disability, and sexual orientation.
WBD's Disability Network launched in 2021 with the vision of creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all of their people with disabilities and long-term conditions, as well as those who are parents, carers and allies. The network provides peer and line manager support, constantly drives up awareness (including around neurodiversity), inputs into firmwide policy such as around reasonable adjustments, and initiates and embeds strategic change for the business.
In 2024, the network achieved Disability Confident Leader accreditation, one of the highest standards of disability inclusion in the UK and only the fifth law firm in the country to do so, after implementing a raft of initiatives, including around recruitment and retention practices, delivering training and workshops, and focussing on accessibility.
The network has also organised various events and campaigns, such as celebrating International Day of People with Disabilities, hosting guest speakers, and partnering with external organisations and charities. As a result of the network's efforts, WBD has seen an increase in disability disclosure, employee engagement, and client satisfaction.
Michelle Essen, Legal Director at Womble Bond Dickinson and the chair of the Disability Network, said:
"We are absolutely thrilled to be shortlisted for this prestigious award, which is a testament to the hard work and unswerving dedication of our network steering group and members, as well as to the continuing and invaluable support of the wider business".
Claire Best, Associate and network steering group member added:
"We are passionate about making a positive difference for our colleagues and clients, and are proud to be part of a firm that values and celebrates diversity in all its forms."
The winners of the Diversity Network Awards will be announced at a gala dinner on 27 September 2024 at the InterContinental London, and will celebrate networks, heads of diversity, leads and unsung heroes who all make their networks tick.
Earlier this year, WBD's Disability Network was a finalist in the Outstanding Ability Network of the Year category at the British Diversity Awards. It was also shortlisted in The Legal 500 ESG UK 2024 Awards' category for Disability/Neurodiversity: Best Initiative to Attract and Retain Talent, with Michelle and network steering group member Emily Cox each separately being shortlisted for Disability/Neurodiversity: Private Practice Champion.
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