Case Study:
Slaughter and May
“We wanted independent experts to analyse the data, and to consider this analysis with a deep understanding of social mobility – from both an academic and a practical perspective.”
Research shows the positive impact of setting targets in relation to diversity objectives. In July 2023, Slaughter and May were the first major British law firm to publish social mobility targets, underpinned by extensive data analysis and supported by a comprehensive action plan.
The targets were set based on extensive workforce analysis undertaken by the Bridge Group. In December 2023, the firm published its social mobility report, outlining the methodology for target-setting, and describing the data collection process.
Uzma Hamid-Dizier, Director of Responsible Business at Slaughter and May, describes the contribution from the Charity: “We partnered with the Bridge Group because of their expertise in analysis and making practical recommendations. Their contribution ensured that the project was executed in the most impactful way.”
The Bridge Group undertook the analysis, based on data collected by Slaughter and May over a ten-year period and worked closely with Slaughter and May’s Social Mobility Working Group. Slaughter and May and the Bridge Group partnered through each stage of the process which included analysis, projections, scenario planning and identifying causal drivers of change.
“The support of the Bridge Group was instrumental in helping us to set targets; they helped build stakeholder trust, which enabled us to achieve robust targets based on reliable data and a clear plan of action.”
Uzma reflects on the media response to the announcement: “The targets and the report were universally positively received, which increases accountability for us to deliver and be transparent about our progress.”
Further information:
For organisations interested in following the lead taken by Slaughter and May, the firm’s recently published social mobility report provides useful advice on how to set socio-economic targets, sharing best practice for the wider benefit of others in the sector.
In collaboration with the Social Mobility Foundation, the Bridge Group produced a practical guide to help organisations calculate their socio-economic pay gap, set meaningful targets and drive change.
February 2024