Members of Birmingham Law Society have been donating funds to ensure every primary school in the city has a copy of Judge Brenda and the Supreme Court, as it looks to inspire the next generation into pursuing a career in law.
The book, published by the Legal Action Group (LAG), tells the story of Ama who goes on a school trip from Richmond to visit the Supreme Court in London. On this trip they meet Lady Hale who tells them about the work of the Court in a way that is accessible to younger children.
Birmingham Law Society is running the campaign as the book is an excellent introduction to the legal profession and there are key themes of equality and justice to inspire young children in Birmingham. The book explains the story of Lady Hale’s journey to the Supreme Court, providing encouragement for girls to follow the mantra: “if more girls become judges, the law will improve along the way”.
With the aim for all 260 primary schools to have copies of the book, members of BLS including individuals and law firms such as Mills and Reeve and Bevan Brittan, alongside the Midlands Circuit Women’s Forum and the Midlands Circuit (which represent barristers), have supported the project with donations.
Julia Jones, Senior Associate at Bevan Brittan and Chair of Birmingham Law Society’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Gender Sub-Committee, said: “The Committee want the presentation of the book to also be an opportunity to connect with schools and their pupils about the legal profession to encourage diversity and inspire those who might not have considered it as an option before.
“We have received fantastic reviews from children who have already read the book, and we look forward to continuing our work in inspiring the next generation.”