Netlaw Media Assists in Spearheading a New Legal Technology Diversity Initiative – DELTAS

Frances Armstrong, Netlaw Media’s UK and EMEA Managing Director, has joined DELTAS’ newly-formed ten-strong leadership panel. Other members of the DETLAS leadership panel include Jacqueline de Rojas CBE, president of TechUK, and six current or former law firm IT Directors. The legal IT vendor and consultancy communities are also represented.

DELTAS aims to raise awareness of the employment opportunities in the legal IT and IT security industries for people from all backgrounds and lifestyles. At the same time, the group aims to eliminate biases within the sector that are associated with race, gender, disability, age, faith or sexual orientation. An active programme of outreach and engagement is planned, and an ethical charter to promote excellent and diversity will be produced.

Membership of DELTAS is open to individuals already working in the legal profession, as well as individuals currently in education who aspire to join the sector. Law-related businesses and suppliers, who can demonstrate a commitment to diversity, can join DELTAS as corporate partners.

Explaining the rationale for DELTAS’ launch, Netlaw Media’s Frances Armstrong said that there was a widespread perception within the legal IT and IT security communities that their sectors were not as open and diverse as they should be. “This is something that DELTAS aims to change,” she said.

Addressing her own company’s role in encouraging diversity, Mrs Armstrong has pledged to increase the percentage of invited female speakers at The British Legal Technology Forum (BLTF) from 24 per cent to 35 per cent over the next 2 years. In relation to the attendance profile at Netlaw Media events, Frances added: “I am proud that our events attract a diverse range of speakers and visitors, but I know that more can be achieved and with the input and assistance of the DELTAS panel and community, I feel this is certainly achievable.”