The competition will be run each summer as part of our work with schools and young people in social mobility ‘cold spots’, with students being asked to write about a topical area of law. The writer of the winning essay receives a £250 prize.

Ismail chose to write about the UK’s strike laws and the recent industrial action seen across many sectors. He discussed the legal basis for all industrial action and expressed his views on whether further restrictions on calling strikes are necessary.

Ismail Hossain said:

“I am delighted to have won the Lewis Silkin essay competition. I attended their outreach event at my college and have found their information about careers in law incredibly useful. I am grateful for their continued help and support as I work towards a career as a solicitor.”

Jo Evans, Corporate Partner and Chair of the Partnership, said:

“Congratulations to Ismail! I’m thrilled to award him as our first ever winner and the prize is well deserved. His essay was very well written, clear and informative. It was an excellent piece of work. I hope Ismail will pursue a career in law. All of us at Lewis Silkin would be very happy to continue to support him.”

David Hopper, Employment Partner and industrial relations specialist, said:

“Ismail wrote a great essay. It was a really insightful piece of work and confidently displayed his knowledge about a very complex topic.”