A Swansea law firm has become the first in the area to take part in an innovative work placement scheme.
Commercial law firm Douglas-Jones Mercer (DJM) Solicitors has opened its doors to school pupils looking to gain valuable work experience in the legal profession.
The PRIME scheme, established by 23 of the top law firms in the UK, provides work placements for those from less privileged backgrounds.
Having signed up to PRIME, DJM Solicitors is now working with Swansea University to ensure that all pupils have fair access to quality work experience.
During their placements, the young people will work on commercial accounts across several sectors, with opportunities to learn how to polish their presentation skills and negotiation, in addition to building their CV and interview techniques.
Hugh Hitchcock, Director at Douglas-Jones Mercer Solicitors, said:
“In this tough economic climate, experience of work is becoming more and more important, so we are striving to help students develop their CV and work experience, as it will certainly help their development when seeking a career in the legal profession.
“We recognise the importance of investing in local talent and we’re committed to ensuring that students from all backgrounds have an equal opportunity to undertake a work placement with us to benefit them in later life when looking to start their careers.
“We’re delighted to be working with Swansea University and its prestigious Law School to deliver the best possible work placements for schools pupils in the local area.”
Project Leader of PRIME, Jane Masey, said:
“We’re delighted to welcome Douglas-Jones Mercer as the first law firm in Swansea to sign up to PRIME.
“We would encourage other law firms in Wales to sign up and help to ensure fair access to quality work experience.”
Dr. Jon Howden-Evans, Deputy Head, School of Law, added:
“The School of Law is delighted to be working with Douglas-Jones Mercer as part of the PRIME initiative. We have developed good links with the firm as well having taught some of the solicitors that have qualified there, so we know that the participating students will have a great experience.”