The annual Bar Placement Scheme, which aims to give students from non-traditional backgrounds a chance to experience life as a barrister, was taking place this week at chambers in Leeds, Liverpool and Manchester. The social mobility initiative is now in its fifth year. Chair of the Bar Council, Richard Atkins QC, said: ‘I know first-hand the importance of social mobility. I came to the Bar with no connections, was the first in my family to go to university and am now lucky enough to chair the Bar Council. I hope my example will encourage others.’