This article was written by Beatrice Petrescu.
I joined Burges Salmon in September 2021, luckily a more hopeful time with offices opening up and people slowly entering into the new normal of hybrid working patterns. While working from home has its benefits, being able to work in the office around other trainees and lawyers has been extremely beneficial for my induction into working life, helping me integrate into my new role and the wider law firm culture more smoothly. One of the very first things I was keen to get involved with when I started the training contract was the Burges Salmon networks - founded to put into practice our ambitious and industry-leading diversity and inclusion policies and environmental commitments. The networks and their aims are as follows:
- BProud - LGBT+ network open to members and allies which aims to promote an open culture regarding sexual orientation and invite discussions at many events organised throughout the year;
- BBalanced - gender network which aims to identify priorities and objectives such as changing working practices to improve gender balance;
- BCultured - BAME network that promotes cultural diversity and inclusion through initiatives such as reverse mentoring that can build a better awareness of different cultural experiences;
- BEnabled - forum open to people who identify as disabled, have caring responsibilities for a disabled person or are interested in the area, opening up a space to ensure the firm is an accessible and inclusive place for everyone;
- Family Matters - network for people with caring responsibilities to share experiences and tips through regularly held events;
- BSustainable - network of environmental champions who aim to achieve environmental objectives, raise environmental awareness and foster positive behaviours across the firm.
These networks are great for trainees as not only do you get a chance to share experiences, stories and learn from others in a safe environment, you also get to meet people from across the firm who you may have something in common with but may not otherwise meet during the training contract.
Since joining the firm, I have been an active member of BSustainable. I have had the opportunity to attend a volunteer day at Avon Wildlife Trust Grow Wilder Bristol, have participated in monthly meetings and have helped in the organisation of Green Week. Taking part in organising the talks, activities and communications for Green Week, with the aim of promoting environmental awareness and positive action across the firm, has been an extremely rewarding experience. It has shown me how palpable the lack of hierarchy across the firm once you join a network is, meaning you can contribute as much as you wish to the network without any preconceptions tied to your current level or status in the firm. Ultimately, the fact that my interest in sustainability has been encouraged and used in a practical way plays a big part in why my training contract at Burges Salmon has been so enjoyable – and shows the true benefit of joining one (or more) of Burges Salmon’s networks.