Taylor Emmet solicitors sponsored an event to fund the next generation of support dogs and provided legal advice to guests on the day.
Sheffield-based national charity Support Dogs, which trains autism assistance, disability assistance and epilepsy seizure alert dogs, held the afternoon tea to say thank you to supporters who have chosen to leave a gift in their will to the charity.
Victoria Seithel, Support Dogs’ legacy and relationships officer, said: “Bringing together such an incredible group of people – those who have chosen to leave a gift in their will, alongside those who give so thoughtfully in memory of loved ones – felt both humbling and deeply meaningful. It was a chance to pause, reflect, and recognise the lasting impact of their generosity, not just today, but for years to come.
“With the beautiful setting of Whirlow Brook Hall and the generous partnership of Taylor Emmet Solicitors, the afternoon was filled with warmth, gratitude and shared stories. It was a powerful reminder that behind every gift is a person, a story, and a legacy that continues to change lives.”
Taylor Emmet’s Ben Brown said: “At Taylor Emmet, we are passionate about helping charities maximise the impact of legacy giving, not only through supporting individuals with their wills but also through our new TE Charity Assist service. We work with charities on legacy creation campaigns, legacy administration and legacy protection, helping to ensure that charitable gifts can make a lasting difference for generations to come.
“It was a privilege to support an event that recognised the lasting impact of legacy gifts and celebrated the supporters whose generosity will help ensure more people can benefit from Support Dogs’ incredible work in the years ahead.”
Regional law firm Gardner Leader has gained a B Corp Certification, marking the firm’s commitment to environmental and social responsibility (ESR) and its ongoing impact across the communities it serves.
The firm joins a growing global movement of responsible, purpose-led businesses, with the UK home to over 2,700 organisations, including 40 law firms – the largest B Corp community and network in the world. The certification forms part of a deliberate shift towards becoming a more purpose-driven, responsible business.
Managing partner Derek Rodgers said: “Becoming a B Corp marks an important milestone in our journey and forms part of a deliberate strategic shift, which aligns closely with our firm’s existing values and long-term vision. It also formalises our commitment to operating as a responsible business delivering peace of mind for our people, clients and our community.”
The firm has also launched an extensive programme of activities and groups to facilitate building supportive internal communities. Every employee now has two days’ paid volunteering – with the firm matching staff fundraising for its nominated charities pound for pound. Its Nature and Environment working group drives initiatives like litter-picking lunchtimes, planting bee-friendly greenery, and hosting events with environmental experts.
As part of its long-term ambitions, Gardner Leader is aligning itself with the Better Business Act, which calls for company law to consider people and planet alongside profit. The firm is also working with Ecologi to measure, report and reduce its emissions, including establishing its baseline carbon footprint across Scopes 1, 2 and 3, with plans to deliver a detailed carbon reduction and net zero strategy.
Welsh law firm David W Harris & Co has raised £1,400 for charity by taking part in the annual Will Aid campaign.
The firm participated throughout November, inviting clients to make a voluntary donation in place of standard fees. Since its launch in 1988, Will Aid has raised more than £26 million in donations, with millions more pledged in charitable legacies.
Partner Tom Baker said: “We’re proud to support Will Aid each year – it’s a great opportunity to help our clients plan for the future while also raising funds for incredibly important causes.
“It’s always a real team effort, and everyone gets behind the campaign. Knowing that the work we do during the campaign has a wider impact beyond our day-to-day role makes it especially rewarding.
“The funds raised will go on to support people facing difficult circumstances, both here in the UK and around the world, which makes taking part all the more meaningful.”
Peter de Vena Franks, Will Aid’s campaign director, said: “The continued commitment from firms like David W Harris & Co is what makes Will Aid such a success year after year. Their support helps ensure the campaign can reach more people while generating essential funding for charities delivering crucial work in the UK and beyond.
“It’s a great example of how the legal profession can make a meaningful difference in communities.”
Will Aid runs every November – to sign up, go to https://www.willaid.org.uk/early-bird
