New JAC update highlights outreach, fair selection reforms and data-led gains in judicial diversity
The Judicial Appointments Commission has published its Diversity Update for January 2026, setting out recent progress and analysis in support of its statutory duty to encourage diversity among candidates for judicial appointment.
The update, released on 29 January 2026, is part of the JAC’s biannual reporting cycle and covers activity delivered over the past six months. It draws extensively on findings from the 2025 Diversity of the Judiciary Statistics Report, providing detailed insight into representation and progression across the judicial selection pipeline.
The JAC’s diversity strategy is structured around three core strands: targeted outreach, fair and non-discriminatory selection processes, and collaboration with partner organisations to reduce structural barriers to entry. The January update reports activity and evaluation work undertaken across all three areas.
One significant development highlighted is the introduction of a revised Judicial Skills and Abilities framework, published by the judiciary in January 2025 with support from the JAC. All selection exercises launched from October 2025 onwards now operate under this framework, which sets out the skills expected of judicial office-holders in language designed to be accessible and consistent across roles.
The update also reports on an evaluation of changes made in 2022 to statutory consultation processes. Completed in 2025, the evaluation found the revised approach to be effective, with most candidates now participating in selection exercises where statutory consultation is waived. Updated guidance and evaluation findings have been published by the JAC.
In relation to selection methods, the JAC commissioned the Work Psychology Group during 2025 to provide expert advice on shortlisting practices. This work concluded that the JAC’s current approaches align with recognised best practice and are appropriate for judicial selection. The same organisation was also asked to review neurodiversity best practice. Its findings have been published, with several recommendations already implemented and a further review of the reasonable adjustment policy scheduled for 2026.
Outreach activity remains a central feature of the JAC’s work. The Targeted Outreach Programme continues to support candidates from underrepresented groups. As of December 2025, more than 1,190 individuals had applied to the programme, with 666 receiving tailored support from former JAC Commissioners and Judicial Guides. Monitoring data indicates improved progression outcomes for several groups.
During 2025, the JAC expanded its engagement activity, supporting more than 40 external events and hosting its first large-scale candidate seminar, attended by over 400 prospective applicants.
The update also outlines joint work with partners through the Judicial Diversity Forum, including plans for a centralised online hub bringing together guidance and initiatives, and targeted engagement to better understand the experiences of Black legal professionals.
The January 2026 update builds on the publication of the 2025 Diversity of the Judiciary Statistics Report, which was accompanied for the first time by an interactive online dashboard. This data underpins new analysis in the update, including insight into disability representation across the judicial pipeline.