Diversity

On this page you can find information about the work that the judiciary are collectively undertaking to foster an environment in which individuals, whatever their personal or professional background, can thrive. The judiciary recognise that diversity, inclusion and equality are fundamental to the rule of law and to what judicial office holders do.

The Judicial Diversity Committee of the Judges Council supports the Lady Chief Justice in fulfilling her statutory duty to encourage diversity through the development and implementation of the Judicial Diversity and Inclusion strategy and delivery plan. The progress of this work is published in annual updates and other communications from the Lady Chief Justice.

This page provides further information on schemes to support those considering applying to join the judiciary and the important roles of Diversity and Community Relations Judges and Magistrates. There are also links to the guidance for judiciary on expected behaviours and how to find statistics on the diversity of the judiciary.

Lady Chief Justice: Diversity and Inclusion Statement

Read the Lady Chief Justice’s statement on the importance of fair treatment.

Judicial Diversity and Inclusion Strategy 2020/25

The Diversity Strategy was published in November 2020. It sets out the ambition, aim and objectives for the judiciary over the next five years.

Statement of Expected Behaviour

Read more about the standards of behaviour expected from all judicial office holders.

Statistics

Annual judicial diversity statistics

Pre-Application Judicial Education Programme (PAJE)

Greater support to apply to become a judge.

Schools and Universities Engagement

Online resources and information, and how to request a visit from a judge.

Equal Treatment Bench Book

Read the latest version of the Bench Book.

Diversity and Community Relations Judges

Information on DCRJs – who they are, what they do, and how to get in touch.

Diversity and Community Relations Magistrates

Information on DCRMs – who they are, what they do, and how to get in touch.

Educational resources

Find resources to learn more about the role of judges, their role in society, and how they uphold the rule of law.

Latest Diversity News and Updates

See more guidance & resources