Diversity data collection 2019

CILEx is proud to offer a flexible and inclusive route to legal qualification. This makes it particularly suitable for people who want or need to combine studying with earning or other life commitments.

CILEx Regulation offers a constructive approach to regulation, supporting individuals and firms as they develop their ambitions and progress their careers.

Why diversity is important

The legal profession needs to be made up of talented people who reflect the communities they serve. This offers consumers more choice. It may also increase the likelihood of people accessing legal advice by offering a range of providers who genuinely understand them, their circumstances and their background. A diversity of opinions within the profession supports a strong, effective legal system within which the needs and views of all members of society are listened to and provided for.

There is increasing evidence of business advantage for firms that have an inclusive approach to workforce recruitment, promotion and retention. Research has found a statistically significant relationship between a more diverse leadership team and better financial performance. Companies in the top quartile of racial/ethnic diversity were 35 percent more likely to have financial returns above their national industry median. Companies in the top quartile of gender diversity were 15 percent more likely to have financial returns that were above their national industry median.

Firms that have a good reputation for diversity attract applicants from the broadest talent pool. They are also more likely to attract business from individuals and organisations to whom diversity is important.

Why we need diversity data

Every legal regulator is required to collect and publish information about their regulated community. Having up-to-date information about the individuals and firms CILEx Regulation regulates helps it to make regulatory decisions that support lawyers’ progression and growth. To achieve a profession that is truly representative at all levels, regulators and professional bodies must be able to identify barriers to entry and progression and begin to break them down.

CILEx Regulation launches its 2019 diversity data collection in July. The questions only take about five minutes to answer and the regulated community will receive a link to the questionnaire by email. Please help the regulator to build an understanding of the people and firms they regulate. By doing this, you will help CILEx Regulation strengthen its profession and better support a thriving and diverse regulated community.