The Law Society of Northern Ireland has announced a new partnership with JAM Card and NOW Group, becoming Northern Ireland’s first JAM Card friendly legal regulatory and membership organisation. This partnership enables Society members and the public with invisible disabilities or communication barriers to tell staff that they need extra time and understanding in a private and easy manner.
The JAM Card (Just A Minute) allows people with invisible disabilities to discreetly request patience during daily interactions. More than 1 in 5 potential consumers have a disability, and it is estimated that almost 1 in 5 people of working age has a disability.
As a JAM Card partner, the Law Society has provided tailored eLearning training for all staff to equip them with the skills required to support people with visible and invisible disabilities. Society staff have been trained to recognise and respond to the JAM Card, enhancing customer service, making the experience less daunting for those with non-visible disabilities, whilst fostering a culture of understanding and neurodiversity.
Welcoming the partnership, Colin Mitchell President of the Law Society of Northern Ireland, said: “At the Society, we want to make sure no one is left behind. Over the last month, we have rolled out the JAM Card training to make sure our staff are equipped with the correct training to recognise JAM Card users and providing them with the support they need. In addition to being our nominated charity for the year, this partnership is a meaningful step towards breaking down barriers and ensuring that everyone feels welcomed and supported. Aligning with the Law Society’s Diversity & Inclusion strategy, the partnership complements initiatives already in place.”
The Society will be hosting a 30-minute webinar for Members on Wednesday 9th April, where Maeve Monaghan, CEO of NOW Group, will explain what the JAM Card is, how your business can become JAM Card Friendly and the difference it can make for both clients and colleagues. Keavy Ryan, Partner of A&L Goodbody will also be in attendance to discuss what it means to them to partner with Jam Card. Members can sign up for the session here.
