Freeths honoured for inclusion initiatives at national diversity awards
7th May 2026
Freeths honoured for inclusion initiatives at national diversity awards
Leading law firm Freeths has won Diversity and Inclusion Initiative/Programme of the Year (firm focused) at the Women Diversity in Law Awards 2026, recognising the impact of its REACH and Rise networks in driving meaningful, firm wide change.
The award celebrates a diversity and inclusion initiative or programme that has successfully furthered inclusion across an organisation. Freeths was selected as this year’s winner in recognition of the work of its REACH (Race, Ethnicity & Cultural Heritage) and Rise (network for Black colleagues and allies) networks, which have led a nationwide programme of listening and reflection sessions across the firm’s 13 UK offices.
Launched during a period of heightened societal tension, the sessions were designed as trauma informed safe spaces, providing support for colleagues who may have felt marginalised, while also encouraging allyship across the firm. The initiative has helped colleagues to feel heard, validated and empowered, and has played a key role in strengthening Freeths’ inclusive culture.
The award was collected on behalf of the firm by Lisa Gilligan, REACH network lead, alongside Philippa Dempster, Senior Partner and London Managing Partner. The firm also paid tribute to the wider group of network leads, facilitators and colleagues involved, whose collective commitment was central to the programme’s success.
In the same week, Freeths was also shortlisted at the Legal 500 ESG Awards 2026 in two categories: DE&I: Law Firm Initiative of the Year and Internal Support Network of the Year, further recognising the impact and reach of the REACH and Rise networks across the business.
Alongside the firm accolades, Freeths’ Disability Officer Sharon Extance was also shortlisted at the Disability Smart Awards 2026 in the category Disability Smart Impact: Diversity and Inclusion Professional Award. Sharon was recognised for her swift and compassionate approach to implementing workplace adjustments, with a demonstrable positive impact on disabled colleagues across the firm.
Commenting on the win, Philippa Dempster said: “This award reflects the care, commitment and courage shown by colleagues across REACH and Rise in creating spaces where people feel able to speak openly and be supported. Inclusion at Freeths is driven by action, not words alone, and we are proud to see the impact of that work recognised by our peers.”
