The PRIME scheme, established by 23 of the top law firms in the UK, is the first profession-wide social mobility programme, which provides work placements for state school pupils from less privileged backgrounds.

As part of the School of Law’s recent Sixth Form Law Conference: Commercial Law, held on March 25 and 26, DJM Solicitors opened its doors to pupils from the local area looking to gain valuable work experience in the legal profession.

Having signed up to the PRIME scheme, DJM Solicitors is now working with Swansea University to ensure that local pupils have fair access to quality work experience.

During their placements, pupils 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.

Dr Jon Howden-Evans, Deputy Head of Swansea University’s School of Law, said: “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.”

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.” 

For more information visit:

Swansea University School of Law – http://www.swansea.ac.uk/law/

Douglas-Jones Mercer Solicitors – http://djm.law.co.uk

PRIME scheme - http://www.primecommitment.org/home

Image Caption: (Left to Right) Dr John Howden-Evans from Swansea University, Laura Alliss of DJM Solicitors (and Swansea University School of Law graduate) and Hugh Hitchcock from DJM Solicitors.