Law firm Trethowans make the case for inclusive hiring

23 September 2024

A leading law firm in the South of England, Trethowans, is the latest business to provide an opportunity to an apprentice graduate with learning disabilities, supported by Minstead Trust and Positive Path Foundation (PPF).

Noah, a PPF member, has been passionate about the legal industry for many years and is getting an opportunity to be part of the Trethowans family, as an office assistant at the Southampton branch: “I’m very grateful for this partnership helping me find this job and working at Trethowans has changed my life in every way. I love it here, everyone has been very supportive and welcoming and it feels amazing to be able to work in such a great place.”

Trethowans is a UK Top 150 Law Firm, with offices located in Southampton, Winchester, Salisbury, Bournemouth, Poole and a base in London. They offer a broad range of legal services for individuals and businesses. Their legal teams and lawyers are widely recommended in the UK’s independent legal directories – Chambers Guide and Legal 500.

Jess Head, Senior HR Advisor at Trethowans said:

‘Our partnership with Minstead Trust and the introduction to Noah has highlighted the impact that a diverse workforce can have on our firm. Noah is highly regarded across our Southampton office. By embracing those with hidden disabilities, we create a more inclusive and dynamic work environment, allowing us to better understand and serve our clients, particularly those with disabilities themselves. This not only strengthens our internal culture but also enhances our ability to meet the diverse needs of our community.’

Chris Hillman, Head of Empowering Employment at Minstead Trust, credited Trethowans with their inclusive behaviours:

‘Solicitors and the legal industry are always thought of as traditional and potentially old fashioned, but our experience of Trethowans has been anything but this. From their regular support of Minstead Trust, to taking time out of their day to meet with Noah prior to an application and now the support network around him, I couldn’t think of a better place for Noah to begin his great career!’

Jane Atkinson, Founder of Positive Path Foundation expressed her pride in Noah:

‘Since we first met, Noah has overcome so many challenges and now is excelling in his work. He is demonstrating to all of our members that “Hidden Disabilities” shouldn’t prevent you from chasing your dream. We continue to push for change for all of our members and our partnership with Empowering Employment is one of many ways we attempt to do this.’

As a partnership, Minstead Trust and Positive Path Foundation continue to look for local and national businesses, that want to enrich their staff teams with the incredible talents of our members. This work couldn’t be completed without the generosity of many funders, notably the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Community Foundation.

To find out more visit www.minsteadtrust.org.uk/employment