UWE Futures expands to open new pathways into Bristol’s legal and creative sectors

RPC is proud to participate in UWE Futures, a pioneering talent collaboration programme developed by the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol). Designed to promote diversity and support global majority students from low-income backgrounds, the programme has expanded in its second year to welcome more legal firms and a leading creative industry organisation.

Building on success

Following the success of last year’s pilot, UWE Futures has grown to include legal firms RPC, Burges Salmon, Clarke Willmott, Foot Anstey, Osborne Clarke, and Simmons & Simmons. In an exciting development, the programme now also includes Plimsoll Productions, a Bristol-based TV and film production company, as well as UWE Bristol itself, which is offering paid work experience placements within its HR and Finance departments.

Empowering future talent

This year, nearly 30 final-year undergraduate students from UWE Bristol will benefit from one-week paid work experience placements across the eight participating organisations. Students will work in business teams such as HR, marketing, finance, and risk, with opportunities to secure extended internships or guaranteed interviews for suitable roles.

A commitment to social mobility

James Wickes, Partner and Co-Lead of the Social Mobility Community at RPC, said:
"RPC is proud to support initiatives like UWE Futures, which align with our commitment to improving social mobility and increasing diversity within the legal profession. Programmes like this are vital in creating pathways for talented individuals from underrepresented backgrounds to enter the legal and professional services sectors.

"Through mentoring, paid work experience, and ongoing support, UWE Futures is helping to break down barriers and build a more representative and inclusive Bristol legal community. We look forward to seeing the impact this programme has on the next generation of legal professionals and are honoured to be part of this important collaboration."

Collaboration and celebration

In addition to offering placements, RPC will join Burges Salmon and Simmons & Simmons in providing skills development sessions for programme participants. The initiative will conclude with a celebration event hosted by Osborne Clarke, bringing together all participants to reflect on their experiences and achievements.

For more information on RPC’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, visit our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging page.