Law firm drinking culture 'excluding British Muslims'

A prevalent drinking culture in law firms is leaving British Muslims feeling excluded at work, according to a report from diversity recruitment specialist Rare.

Rare embarked on research to understand the barriers faced by British Bangladeshis and Pakistanis after data showed they made up 6.1% of vacation scheme applicants but 3.9% of offer holders, and 7% of training contract applicants but 3.5% of trainees.

Ten interviewees spoke extensively about the drinking culture at law firms, which made socialising with colleagues difficult. For instance, many work events took place in pubs and bars – but for many Muslims, their faith requires them to avoid alcohol and places that exist with the main purpose of selling alcohol.

One interviewee, Faisal, said many law firm diversity panels touch on inclusivity but little is said about the drinking culture, which is a barrier for Faisal in feeling included. 'I mean, just like after a day of work, some of my peers on my vac scheme might say “Who wants to go out for a drink? To the pub?", and I say "no", not because of the people or anything like that. I just can’t,' Faisal said.

Interviewees did not expect all events to be alcohol-free, but would be more comfortable attending work gatherings in other settings.

The report says: ‘A cooking, painting or pottery class with the option to drink alcohol was seen as a more inclusive option taking the primary focus off alcohol. Similarly, graduate recruitment inviting vacation schemers to a pub or bar for a social was seen as something interviewees would be uncomfortable with, whereas a social gathering in the firm office building or a non-alcohol focused venue was seen as much more inclusive, even if alcohol was being served as an option for people who wish to drink it.’

Firms are advised to review their approach to organising work socials. ‘Whilst it is not possible to dictate how people choose to socialise in their free time, it is possible for managers and leaders of organisations to set a precedent of organising inclusive socials when those social events are deemed to be an essential part of a programme or team building exercise,’ the report says.