Breaking Barriers: Disability in the Scottish Legal Profession

We are delighted to host our in person conference in partnership with the Faculty of Advocates. Attendees who are current practicing solicitors will receive a four hour CPD certificate following attendance at the event.

We are aiming to create conversation, raise awareness and offer practical methods for increasing access to justice for disabled people and representation of disability in the Scottish Legal Profession.

Please note there is a maximum capacity for this event, so early registration is encouraged.

Date: Thursday 25 September 2025

Time: 3:00pm – 7:00pm

Location: Mackenzie Building, Old Assembly Cl, High St, Edinburgh EH1 1QX

Agenda:

2.40 - arrival and registration

3:00pm – 3:10pm

Welcome and Introduction

Delivered by Dhana McIver and Felix Boon

3:10pm – 3:40pm

Keynote: Reflections on Equality, Law and Social Justice

Presented by Professor John McKendrick

3:40pm – 4.05pm Deaf Awareness and Communication in Legal Settings

Presented by Nicola Gilchrist

4.05 - 4.30

Questions for Nicola Gilchrist and Professor McKendrick

Pause for learning and sharing - slido questions

4.30pm – 4.55pm

Presentation by Danielle Du Plooy, Founder and Manager of Uppertunity Limited, Hub Partner of Dundee Changemarkers Hub and Board Member for three Scottish Charities

4.55 - 5.30pm: Break for refreshments

5.30 - 6pm: Lived Experience and Legal Access

Presented by Aaliya Seyal

6pm - 6.40: Panel Q&A and Audience Feedback

Chaired by Tom McGovern

6.40pm – 7pm Closing Reflections

Presented by Patricia Thom, President Law Society of Scotland

Host or Publisher Disabling Barriers Scotland