By trainee solicitor Sarah Carter
I sort of fell into being part of the social committee at Burges Salmon. Another trainee who was going on secondment passed on her responsibilities and, as an eager first seat trainee, I offered to take them. However, I soon realised that being on the committee meant a lot more than just missing a lunchtime downstairs in the café; it gave me the chance to meet people throughout the firm and understand a bit more about how the firm's values are embodied in the social interactions of its people.
The social committee meets every month and sends out an email with upcoming events every two weeks. Currently, over three quarters of the firm are part of the social club and a large number regularly participate in social club events. Each year the committee organises a number of large and small events from trips abroad to gin tasting at a local venue (which is always a popular choice!). Being part of the social committee has allowed me to get involved in organising these events and meeting a wide range of people at all levels and in all areas of the firm.
Social events are not the only thing that the committee organises. It is also responsible for managing the many sports clubs at the firm which provide a well-earned opportunity for people from across the firm to get out in the fresh air and put into practice the good work-life balance that the firm promotes.
It is this work-life balance which I think has to be one of the most important services that the social club provides for the firm. It helps to create a community of people who know each other, build strong relationships, get out and explore the city, and encourage each other to enjoy the rich social environment that the firm is able to generate.