Breaking Barriers, Building Inclusion: The Law Society of Northern Ireland Partners with JAM Card and NOW Group

At the start of 2025, the Law Society of Northern Ireland proudly became the region’s first JAM Card friendly legal regulatory and membership organisation. This landmark partnership with the NOW Group and their innovative JAM Card initiative marks a powerful step forward in promoting accessibility and inclusivity within the legal sector.

The JAM Card (‘Just A Minute’) allows individuals with invisible disabilities or communication barriers to discreetly ask for more time and understanding when interacting with others. By introducing JAM Card awareness training across the organisation, the Society is ensuring that both staff and legal professionals are equipped to support members of the public in a respectful and empowering way.

In celebration of this new initiative, the Law Society also named NOW Group as its Charity Partner of the Year for 2025. Maeve Monaghan, CEO of NOW Group, shared her vision for the collaboration:

“In today’s ever changing workplace, you must adapt to survive, and this sector is no different. I am here to say you don’t have to do it on your own. We are keen to work alongside law firms and help them become more inclusive and attractive to new recruits and clients. When done right, it’s not only the right thing to do, but it is also the right thing for your business. It just makes good business sense. Get in touch to find out how we can support your legal practice today.”

Colin Mitchell, President of the Law Society of Northern Ireland, echoed this commitment:

“At the Society, we want to make sure no one is left behind. We have rolled out JAM Card training to ensure our staff are equipped to recognise and support JAM Card users. In addition to being our nominated charity for the year, this partnership is a meaningful step toward breaking down barriers and ensuring that everyone feels welcomed and supported. It aligns closely with our Diversity & Inclusion strategy and complements initiatives already in place.”

To bring this partnership to life, the Law Society has already hosted several successful fundraising events, each filled with energy, commitment, and community spirit.

Earlier this year, brave members of the Society, including President Colin Mitchell, took part in a charity abseil from Belfast’s iconic Europa Hotel. Supported by colleagues, staff, and the wider legal community, this adrenaline pumping event raised over £2,000 in vital funds for the NOW Group, with donations still coming in.

A few weeks later, the halls of the Royal Courts of Justice resonated with harmony during a moving performance by the ProBonoChoir a choir made up of talented solicitors and barristers. Their beautiful harmonies entertained the packed out audience and filled the space with joy. Proceeds from this unforgettable evening benefited both the NOW Group and Dementia NI.

The last of the fundraising events was the annual Legal Walk/Run 2025. This brought together even more members of the legal community on a sunny afternoon in Belfast. Whether walking, running, or cheering from the sidelines, participants raised essential funds to support training and employment opportunities for individuals with learning difficulties and autism — the core mission of the NOW Group.

To everyone who’s walked, run, abseiled, sung, donated, or simply shown support — thank you. Your involvement has made a tangible difference to the lives of those the NOW Group supports. Your contributions help build a more inclusive society, one step, note, or brave descent at a time.

We look forward to seeing what the rest of the 2025 charity partnership holds as the Law Society of Northern Ireland and the NOW Group continue working together.