Matrix Chambers

In line with Matrix’s core values, it invests time and effort into the realisation of equal opportunities at work and at the Bar. Matrix is a committed advocate of equality in all aspects. It takes a three pronged approach to equality and diversity with support for staff and members, networking/consultancy groups and outreach projects, to ensure that Matrix is identifying and addressing early barriers. Matrix has a dedicated Equality and Diversity Manager (non-barrister) and two Equality and Diversity Officers (barristers) to make sure it is doing its utmost to improve diversity at the Bar. Below are just some of the projects Matrix has been involved in to contribute to the progression of diversity at the Bar.

LGBT+

Matrix’s internal LGBT+ and allies network meets to discuss Matrix’s priorities for LGBT+ inclusion. Matrix is one of the few barristers’ chambers that is a member of Stonewall, the LGBT+ charity, as part of their Diversity Champion Programme. Matrix takes part in the Stonewall yearly index and has been able to greatly improve policies and practices as a result. Matrix hosts LGBT consultation meetings for all staff and members to input into its LGBT+ strategy and both members and staff sit on the legal LGBT+ network committee FreeBar.

FreeBar Charter: Matrix is a founding member of FreeBar, a network for everyone at the Bar who believes in equality for LGBT+ individuals and for all those who work at the Bar – whether you are a member, trainee, member of staff, member of the judiciary, or a person who works with members of the Bar.

Mental Health

Matrix prioritises mental health and wellbeing support and itsinitiatives include wellbeing action plans, wellbeing policies and resilience workshops featuring innovative stress management techniques. CEO Rachel Holmes takes a keen interest in the wellbeing of staff and members and is a member of the Thriving of Work Leadership Council.

Ethnicity

Matrix has a Race Working Group made up of members and staff, which is taking active steps to improve racial diversity and inclusion both within Matrix and at the Bar in general. It also has a Race Equality Network, which is designed to be a dedicated space for our Black, Asian and minority ethnic members, trainees and staff to share their experiences and discuss relevant issues.

Matrix is also working closely with other organisations on improving access to the profession for people from minority ethnic groups and other groups underrepresented at the Bar. Matrix is participating in both the 10,000 Black Interns scheme (which is aiming to create a sustainable cycle of mentorship and sponsorship for the Black community by providing paid training and development opportunities) and the Bridging the Bar initiative (which is aiming to improve equality of access to mini-pupillages). Matrix will be running five Bridging the Bar mini pupillages in autumn 2021.

Work experience and mentoring

Matrix has a year round work experience programme for young people aged 14-18, with half of placements reserved for people from backgrounds underrepresented in law, including Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic candidates, those of the first generation in their family to attend university and candidates with disabilities. From the success of this programme Matrix is now launching a longer term mentoring project.

Matrix’s new Future Lawyers scheme builds on the priority work experience placements, offering those students the opportunity for further interview experience, mentoring and workshops on advocacy and networking. The first two workshops held in July 2021 received excellent feedback from participants.

Promoting gender equality

Matrix is dedicated to the promotion and advancement of women both in the workplace, and specifically at the Bar. Matrix has signed the Women in Law Pledge and regularly host events that tackle issues facing women across different backgrounds and across the world. Matrix also  has an internal women’s network for both members and staff to discuss gender issues. Its members have also commented on gender issues facing the Bar and the judiciary in the media.

Neurodiversity

Matrix is keen to support entry into the profession for aspiring barristers with neurodivergent conditions and to foster a more neurodiverse and accepting environment at the Bar.

Matrix is proud to be the first signatory to the Babington Charter and a Champion of the organisation Neurodiversity in Law, whose purpose is to promote and support neurodiversity within the legal professions, and eliminate the stigma often associated with people who think differently.

Matrix Causes Fund

The Matrix Causes Fund, administered by Matrix and contributed to by members and staff, has committed over £1.4 million in small grants to charitable organisations since 2003. The Fund provides support to organisations which promote access to justice, equality of opportunity or a sustainable environment and supports organisations both internationally and in the local community. As well as the funding committed to a range of organisations each quarter, Matrix has committed a three-year grant to the Amos Bursary, to support aspiring Black barristers looking to enter the profession. The funds will be applied to support students while at university and help them to meet their basic costs as students, and participate in experiences and opportunities which will contribute to their performance while at university or preparation for the world of work.