Gill Jennings & Every LLP

We have a dedicated diversity and inclusion group, fully supported by our business leaders. Working to the theme of “Gill Jennings & EveryBODY”, the group comprises volunteers spanning all levels from new entrants to partners, fee earners and support staff. The group is tasked with promoting diversity across the business, diversity training and external outreach. Recent and on-going initiatives by the group include: (1) hosting a group of A-level students selected by the Sutton Trust for work experience, with the aim of broadening access to the IP profession; (2) publishing a series of interview articles with role models working in STEM or the IP industry, with a broad range of backgrounds, to help inspire those looking to get into the field; and (3) reviewing and modifying our training practices with a view to ensuring inclusivity and recognition of different learning styles.

In addition, both the HR department through its wellbeing weeks, and the social committee through its exploits for charity, run events aimed at improving the awareness of diversity matters. One of our focusses has been on mental health, recognising that it is an issue across the legal profession. We have held a variety of training sessions and webinars including how to start a conversation about mental health and strategies for improving resilience and managing stress. We have trained mental health first aiders, provide a confidential helpline which provides counselling and advice 24/7 and has recently introduced wellness action plans (an initiative developed by MIND to support mental health in the workplace).

At GJE we recruit and promote on ability and merit. We train our recruiters to actively look out for and eliminate bias based on factors such as gender, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation and age. We also encourage them to explore their own unconscious bias; when and why it occurs, how it impacts and how to overcome its detrimental effects.

Our diversity policy, wellbeing strategy, benefits package, induction training and our core values underpin all of the above. In particular, they set the tone for new arrivals to the firm, making it clear that everyone is welcome, respected and supported. HR actively seeks feedback and encourages a culture of openness, making it easier, for example, to provide support to those with hidden disabilities.

We are signatories of IP Inclusive, an initiative which brings people together from across the IP sector in pursuit of a common goal: to promote and improve equality, diversity and inclusion within our community. GJE partners and staff regularly participate in IP Inclusive events and are encouraged to speak at, attend, as well as organise, host and generally get involved in the various talks, meetings and workshops organised under the IP Inclusive banner. Partner Heather Scott is also involved in IP Inclusive’s Careers In Ideas initiative, which seeks to promote careers in IP, particularly to those who might not previously have considered it.