Landmark Chambers and four other sets launch Mentoring Scheme for underrepresented groups at the Bar

Landmark Chambers and four other sets specialising in Planning, Property and Public Law, Cornerstone Barristers, Field Court Chambers, FTB Chambers and Kings Chambers, have set up a mentoring scheme for underrepresented groups at the Bar. The scheme is supported by the Planning and Environmental Bar Association (PEBA) and is intended to encourage undergraduates and postgraduates from groups that are not well represented at the Bar, to consider becoming barristers. The scheme will run from October 2021 to June 2022 and aims to provide advice and guidance to suitable candidates on the process of becoming a barrister. PEBA and each of the partner Chambers recognises the importance of driving equality and diversity in the Bar and hope this Mentoring Scheme will lay the foundations to creating a profession that is representative of all and for all by introducing those from non-traditional backgrounds to the profession. Andrew Byass says “We firmly believe that widening access to the Bar can only serve to drive excellence. This is one of many steps that we are taking which we hope will encourage anyone with the requisite ability, no matter their background, to consider a career at the Bar, and which will in turn provide practical support and assistance.” Successful applicants will be offered one-to-one meetings with a mentor, a workshop on applications for pupillage and (subject to COVID-19 restrictions) one or more social events with mentors and other mentees. For those who wish to apply, the application form may be downloaded here and the guidelines for applicants are here. Applications should be submitted by midday on 8 October 2021. Successful applicants will be notified by e-mail, by 29 October 2021.