Government Legal Profession Diversity Summer Scheme, 2026 – another record number of applications
This year, I had the privilege, in my capacity as President of the Society of Asian Lawyers (“SAL”), to join SAL’s Immediate Past President and GLD Lawyer, Ranjit Sond, in selecting the successful SAL candidates for the Government Legal Profession (“GLP”) Diversity Summer Scheme 2026 (“the Scheme”).
SAL & GLP
For several years, SAL has proudly partnered with the GLP to help open doors to this highly sought‑after Summer Scheme, an opportunity that is often difficult to secure without support or visibility.
The Scheme
The Scheme is designed for undergraduates and graduates from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds, with the aim of improving access to the legal profession and widening participation across the sector.
Representation matters. So does equality of opportunity. SAL is pleased to stand alongside fellow organisations: Aspiring Solicitors; Black Lawyers Circle; the Law Society Diversity Access Scheme; the Social Mobility Foundation; and the Sutton Trust in putting forward exceptional candidates for this year’s Scheme.
What to expect
The Scheme will run from 20 to 24 July 2026, with in‑person participants attending GLP offices in London, Leeds, Salford and Bristol. A virtual programme will run from 20 to 21 July 2026 for those taking part online.
Across the week, participants will take part in a structured programme of interactive talks, workshops and practical exercises. Sessions will offer insight into life at the GLP, including contributions from senior leaders within the organisation and across the wider legal profession.
The programme will also introduce key areas of legal work, such as litigation, legislation, employment law and commercial law, and provide opportunities to partner with a GLP “buddy” (a practising GLP lawyer). Participants may also engage in exercises covering areas such as employment, commercial, competition and international law.
In addition, the Scheme includes valuable guidance on applying for legal roles, featuring a session on the GLP recruitment process, psychometric testing, and broader legal application tips. This is an especially beneficial component for anyone considering a career within the public sector.
This year’s applicants
As in previous years, SAL received a significant number of applications for the Scheme, an increase on last year. This continued growth is encouraging, as it shows SAL is reaching more aspiring lawyers from socially mobile and underrepresented backgrounds. We hope that, in future years, the Scheme will expand even further so that more candidates can benefit from this important opportunity.
Due to the limited number of places available, SAL was only able to put forward a select number of deserving candidates. In turn, this meant that many applicants were not selected. We are frequently asked for individual feedback, however, due to the volume of applications and the voluntary nature of our work, SAL is unfortunately unable to provide personalised feedback to all unsuccessful candidates.
Feedback
That said, as with any competitive application process, there are some core guidance that are vital in any application. These general tips may assist future candidates:
- Read – and then re‑read – the criteria, form and instructions before applying;
- Ensure every section and tick‑box is fully completed;
- Adhere strictly to any specified word limit;
- Check that the application has been properly endorsed/signed, where required;
- Check that the application is correctly dated;
- Spellcheck thoroughly for any errors;
- Ask someone else to read your form with a fresh pair of eyes;
- Submit the form in the exact format requested;
- Be mindful when using AI tools to assist with your application – your voice, personality and authenticity must remain clear.
From my prospective, being able to recognise a candidate’s authentic voice and personality was an important factor of the selection process. I wanted to understand each candidate’s journey and hear in their own words, why they were most deserving of a place on the Scheme. This voice and impact of their journey can sometimes be lost when using or heavily relying upon AI tools.
SAL’s role
I consider it a profound privilege to play a role in selecting successful candidates for this year’s Scheme. This responsibility carries particular meaning for me – I came from a socially mobile background, attended a state school, was the first female in my family to attend university and had no connections within the legal profession. There were many more challenges and barriers during my professional journey.
Today, I carry the role of SAL’s President with immense pride and an equal sense of responsibility, to ensure that opportunities reach those who, like me, simply needed a fair chance to prove what they could achieve.
I wish all of the successful candidates the best of luck in their GLP placement and look forward to hearing about their experiences.
For all of those unsuccessful candidates, please do not be disheartened. SAL hopes that it may bring the same opportunity next year and we would encourage you to apply again.
There is also plenty of opportunity to apply your skills and time meaningfully and with purpose to other voluntary work, including the work of the Society of Asian Lawyers.
Further information
For more information about SAL’s work, collaboration and/or how you can join us including election onto the SAL Committee, please contact SAL’s Secretary, Asia Razaq-Miah at secretary@societyofasianlawyers.co.uk
Muntech Kaur
President, Society of Asian Lawyers
Family Law Solicitor