As Scottish schools return this month, Clyde & Co has been considering how colleagues’ parenting and caring roles link them across the globe. The law firm has launched a global parents and carers network, with James McBride as global co-chair, alongside Lindie Janse van Rensburg from the Johannesburg office.
The network, called PACT (Parents & Carers Together), was initially launched in the UK and has since expanded to become a global employee resource group. The firm has developed policies on emergency caring leave and parental leave, and has hosted events with speakers such as Dame Laura Kenny and Nova Eden.
The global network will connect colleagues from different geographical jurisdictions and provide a platform for sharing experiences and best practices. Clyde & Co has recognized the geographical disparity in support for parents and carers, influenced by geopolitical factors and variations in employment law.
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They have identified key topics to focus on, including miscarriage, post-natal depression, and carers’ mental health. The vision is to create a global community that empowers colleagues to attain their full potential at work, while upholding and promoting each other’s dignity, rights, and responsibilities.
Clyde & Co believes that engaging with these matters adds real value to a firm’s performance, and that the firms that get it right will be those that listen, identify gaps, and can evidence that their day-to-day practice and perspectives emulate their vision.
The UK government’s Consultation on Employment Rights for Unpaid Carers is a significant step towards recognizing the importance of supporting carers in the workplace.
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Clyde & Co will continue to develop its global parents and carers network, with a focus on local issues and building understanding. The firm will also engage with external stakeholders, including clients and industry partners, to promote its vision and values.
It is likely to have a positive impact on the firm’s performance and reputation, and may also influence other firms in the legal sector to follow suit. The launch of the global network is a significant milestone for Clyde & Co, and demonstrates the firm’s commitment to supporting its colleagues and promoting diversity and inclusion.
With its global reach and expertise, Clyde & Co is well-placed to make a positive impact on the lives of working parents and carers.