Be The Ladder Foundation
Creating meaningful opportunities and breaking down barriers for young people to succeed, irrespective of personal background or characteristics
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Moore Barlow: Proud supporters of the Be The Ladder Foundation
At Moore Barlow, we believe in creating meaningful opportunities and breaking down barriers for young people to succeed, irrespective of personal background or characteristics. That’s why we are proud advocates and dedicated supporters of the Be The Ladder Foundation, a remarkable initiative committed to empowering children from low socio-economic backgrounds.
Our commitment to Be The Ladder Foundation
The Be The Ladder Foundation provides vital support to young people who may not meet their potential due to their socio-economic status and require essential resources to reach their full potential. The foundation bridges the gap by offering school uniforms, educational equipment, tuition support, and funding for enriching experiences that build confidence and self-esteem.
Recognising the importance of early intervention, the foundation ensures that students transitioning from primary to secondary education remain engaged and motivated. By fostering a positive educational mindset, Be The Ladder helps narrow the attainment gap and keeps young minds focused on their aspirations.

Dr. Trevor D. Sterling (Hon.causa)
Senior Partner | Major Trauma, Personal Injury
Listen to the latest U-Triumph podcasts
Listen to the latest U-Triumph podcast, created and hosted by Senior Partner Trevor Sterling. The U-Triumph Podcast will share success stories that will encourage people, especially those from diverse backgrounds, not just to aspire to climb the ladder but to become the ladder.
Shaunagh Brown – Season 2, episode 2
From growing up in Peckham to representing Harlequins and England in rugby, Shaunagh’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, grit, and self-belief. Her commitment to challenging societal norms and inspiring the next generation reminds us that true success lies in who you uplift along the way.
Gavin Allen – Season 2, episode 1
From diverse storytelling to the importance of representation in media, Gavin shares invaluable insights that highlight the heart of the Be the Ladder philosophy. It’s an inspiring conversation about mentorship, integrity, and the future of media you won’t want to miss.
The Be The Ladder programme: Creating a lasting impact
The foundation’s Be The Ladder Programme is designed to support students who show clear ability but fall below age-related attainment levels. The programme is structured around four key ‘Rungs’ of support:
- Creative workshops – Workshops that use artistic mediums to encourage creative thought and expression, to build self-esteem and confidence.
- Facilitating cultural capital – Funding for extracurricular activities such as school trips to broaden perspectives and learning experiences.
- Tutoring – Tailored tutoring to help students reach age-appropriate attainment levels, initiated only after creative activities have enhanced their self-esteem.
- Ancillary grants – Supporting essential educational needs, including school uniforms, learning materials, and travel expenses.
By offering these critical interventions, the foundation fosters both academic success and personal growth, ensuring that every child has a fair chance to thrive.
Celebrating those who inspire: The Be The Ladder Awards
Beyond its essential educational initiatives, the foundation also recognises those who make a difference through the Be The Ladder Awards. These prestigious awards shine a spotlight on individuals and organisations that embody the ethos of ‘being a ladder’ – helping others overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.
Every year, the awards celebrate 30 exceptional individuals or groups, known as The Ladder List, across ten categories. From these nominees, one deserving recipient in each category is honoured with the coveted Golden Ladder Award during a special awards ceremony. This recognition is not just about celebration; it’s about inspiring a movement of kindness and mentorship, encouraging others to step up and be the ladder for someone else.
How can we help?
Contact Moore Barlow today and discover how we can help you, your family or your business.
A personal connection: Our Senior Partner’s vision
Our support for Be The Ladder is deeply personal. Dr. Trevor D. Sterling (Hon.causa), Senior Partner at Moore Barlow, is the Founder of the Be The Ladder Foundation.
His unwavering commitment to social mobility and education drives our firm’s dedication to this cause. Through his leadership and vision, we are not only supporters but active participants in changing lives for the better.
Join us in supporting a brighter future
I want other individuals to join me in being the ladder for people, offer advice, share your experience and pay forward. I will continue to help as many people as possible to realise their dreams of joining and flourishing in the legal profession. And when they do, I hope they too realise that to make a difference truly, they also should and must help others along the way – to be the ladder rather than merely climbing it.
Dr. Trevor D. Sterling (Hon.causa), Senior Partner at Moore Barlow
At Moore Barlow, we are honoured to stand beside the Be The Ladder Foundation in its mission to uplift and empower the next generation. Whether through mentorship, funding, or advocacy, we are dedicated to fostering a culture of opportunity and inclusivity.
We invite you to learn more about the foundation and find ways to contribute to this incredible initiative. Together, we can make a lasting impact—one step, one child, one ladder at a time.
How can we help?
Contact Moore Barlow today and discover how we can help you, your family or your business.