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What does International Women ’ s Day mean to you ?
Lauren : As a passionate feminist I believe that International Women ’ s Day is an important day for all people , not just women . It puts gender equality at the forefront of peoples ’ minds and provides a forum for important discussions . Sadly , there is still a long way to go to create a fair and equal world and recent world events have only made that more evident .
Lesley : International Women ’ s Day is a global focal point which enables key issues such as gender equality to be brought to the fore . I think it ’ s a good idea to highlight inequality with a view to eradicating it . Social media has meant that the key messages of International Women ’ s Day can be shared to a wider audience . This is important as it ’ s our joint responsibility to be passionate , forward-thinking and transparent regarding the issues currently affecting women .
The theme of this year ’ s IWD campaign is # EmbraceEquity . How do you embrace equity through your work ?
Lauren : I think it ’ s wonderful that the campaign focusses on “ equity ” and not “ equality ”. This encourages discussions around the fact that some are less fortunate in life and need a step up to be put on an even playing field . Embracing equity is the way forward to achieving equality .
Equity is embraced in family law and therefore in my day-to-day work . For example , it would not always be fair for there to be an equal division of capital following a relationship breakdown if one party had a greater income and a greater mortgage capacity and the other party needed more funds to house their children . In that scenario an unequal division of capital might be merited in order to provide a fair and equitable settlement .
Around our office I would like to think that equality is embraced and that both men and women are encouraged to have their voice heard . I would not be afraid to call out any discrimination and I would hope that our workplace is an inclusive environment for all .
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Lesley : Raising awareness of the barriers to entering the legal profession and obstacles to practise , ensure that hurdles are overcome . I think that we are making good progress but that more can be done .
What ’ s great about being a woman in business ?
Lauren : I sometimes forget that a law firm is a business and therefore , as a lawyer , I am a businesswoman ! What is great about being a woman in business is feeling like I am able to help others . The best part of my job is seeing people at the beginning of a case who may be very emotional and lost and then seeing them at the end , content and ready to move on with the next chapter of their lives and be the best version of themselves .
I am proud to be a woman in business . I was the first female in my family to go to university and I am grateful that Bower Bailey has allowed me to progress my career and get me to where I am today .
Lesley : Representing female lawyers and holding passionate values regarding social injustices . I ’ ve seen the progression of women within the legal profession during the time I have been in practice . Without doubt , a greater number of women are entering the profession , whether as solicitors or legal executives . I feel proud not just of my academic achievements , but daily when I assist my clients with regard to their property law issues . That makes me feel great .
What ’ s your biggest challenge as a woman in business ?
Lesley : Undoubtedly , there are many challenges for any professional in business . However , as a woman in business , I certainly believe that we historically had to overcome gender stereotypes . Perhaps , albeit unjustifiably , women suffer more from self-doubt and imposter syndrome than our male counterparts in business . In addition , women have traditionally been primary carers for their children , and also now their elderly relatives . This means there are greater demands on the
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“ sandwich generation ” supporting their family financially and emotionally , as well as trying to strive to enhance their career .
Lauren : I think perhaps the biggest challenge for a woman in business is feeling like you have a right to be there , a right to have a seat at the table and a right to have your voice heard ! As women we need to remember that we do have those rights and actually , we can make businesses better by being heard . We may not approach things in the same way that a man would but that is a positive and not a negative and should be embraced .
What are your tips to succeed as a woman in business ?
Lesley : Women can often feel isolated as professionals . My advice to counter this would be to embrace networking . At the end of the day , we are all human , and it ’ s good to develop and nurture a professional network . I would advocate staying true to yourself and your beliefs whilst you strive for success to ensure that you are being respected in your field .
Self-confidence and self-belief are a must . A good work-life balance to ensure you can wind down after a busy week is essential , be it walking the dog , enjoying a facial , going to the gym or having a G & T . Self-care is a vital component of success .
Lauren : Believe in yourself and do not be afraid to ask for help ! I truly believe that everyone has the potential to achieve great things in life . It can be harder for some to reach their goals because of their gender , sexuality , race or background etc . However , I would encourage people not to put limitations on themselves . Our differences are something to be proud of . It may not be easy but I would encourage anyone to find mentors , seek role models and never be afraid to ask for advice or guidance – it is amazing how many good people will be happy to help .
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Lesley Stone is a new build property expert . She was admitted as a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives in 1998 and became a partner in the firm in 2022 . Lesley ’ s wealth of experience stems from working in the residential property team since 2000 . She is on the conveyancing panel for a number of large , national house builders and is highly recommended to prospective new purchasers .
To contact Lesley email : lstone @ bowerbailey . co . uk or call 01793 610466
Lauren is a specialist divorce and family lawyer . Lauren completed her training contract at Bower Bailey and qualified as a Solicitor in 2019 . She was promoted to Associate in 2021 and continues to grow her practice . Lauren advises on divorce and financial matters following a relationship breakdown as well as private law children matters and transfers of equity of the family home .
To contact Lauren email : lwebb @ bowerbailey . co . uk or call 01793 610 466
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