Blandy & Blandy leads progress on International Women's Day

Friday, March 8, marks International Women's Day, a day to celebrate women's achievements and raise awareness about gender equality. In the legal sector, where gender disparities persist, Blandy & Blandy, a prominent law firm with offices in Reading, Henley-on-Thames, and Wokingham, continues to make significant strides towards fostering diversity and empowering women.

According to data released by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) in December 2023, only 37% of partners in law firms across England and Wales are women. This is in stark contrast to the fact that women now constitute 53% of the solicitor profession. Paul Philip, Chief Executive of the SRA, emphasises the importance of a diverse and inclusive legal profession, stating that it benefits both the public and legal businesses.

In this context, Blandy & Blandy stands out as a trailblazer, challenging the status quo. The firm's Chairman and partner, Nick Burrows, highlights their commitment to diversity. He proudly notes that 66% of their 18 partners are women. This achievement is not a result of explicit design but is rooted in the firm's culture and longstanding support for women in business.

Nick Burrows points out that the firm has welcomed new partners Claire Clarke and Gemma Kemp to their growing Family Law team, contributing to the majority of partners being women. Notably, two-thirds of Blandy & Blandy's current senior associates and associates are also women, reinforcing their commitment to gender equality and progression within the legal sector.

This commitment is further underscored by the fact that Brenda Long, Blandy & Blandy's first female chair, appointed in 2016, paved the way for subsequent female leaders. The firm's ethos reflects a genuine dedication to fostering an environment where women can thrive, acknowledging and valuing their significant contributions to the sustained success of the firm.

As the legal sector takes gradual steps toward greater gender equality, Blandy & Blandy serves as an inspiring example, demonstrating that progress is achievable through a culture of inclusivity and a commitment to recognising and nurturing talent, regardless of gender. On International Women's Day and beyond, Blandy & Blandy's story stands as a testament to the transformative power of a diverse and empowered workforce in the legal profession.