Vinson & Elkins Recognised for "Social Mobility Programme of the Year" at The Legal Benchmarking Group's Social Impact EMEA Awards 2024

The Social Mobility Programme of the Year award honours those in the legal industry that have made significant and measurable strides in enhancing social mobility. Vinson & Elkins was recognised for its achieVE Mentoring Programme, designed to support underrepresented students at Bishop Challoner Catholic Federation of Schools in Shadwell.

Launched in 2020 by a group of three associates in the London office, the achieVE programme has since grown to include nearly all attorneys and numerous staff members, who have played a pivotal role in organizing and leading sessions. The firm has established a formal mentoring partnership with Bishop Challoner, offering students from years 10 through 12 a structured support system.

Each year, teachers at Bishop Challoner select groups of high-achieving students from disadvantaged and underrepresented backgrounds in law, who then participate in six formal mentoring sessions, speed networking events, and career workshops. These initiatives aim to inspire and equip students with the skills and confidence needed to pursue careers in law and beyond.