Employment: Dorset, Devon and Cornwall in South West

Ashfords LLP

The ‘extremely knowledgeable’ team at Ashfords LLP harnesses a deep bench of experts to advise leading clients in the South West and is praised for its ‘really good levels of experience.’ Stephen Moore heads the firm’s employment practice in Bristol, while Exeter-based Su Apps is highly regarded for a robust M&A, TUPE, restructuring, and outsourcing practice. Kirsty Cooke acts for public and private sector clients in a range of employment and business immigration matters, with notable expertise in the health sector. The Plymouth team was bolstered by the arrival of James Collings in March 2024, formerly a partner at Foot Anstey, who handles complex employee relations matters.

Responsables de la pratique:

Stephen Moore


Autres avocats clés:

Su Apps; Kirsty Cooke; James Collings


Les références

‘Ashfords in Exeter has an excellent employment team with really good levels of experience.’

‘Su Apps is superb. She is hardworking, very commercially minded, and manages clients extremely well.’

‘Great knowledge of lawyers across all of their offices – there is a consistent quality of associates and partners which always impresses.’

Principaux clients

Multiverse Group Limited


Ocado Group Limited


The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Trust


Stef Langdons Limited


Nanusens Limited


Michael Batt Foundation


Wayfairer Travel Limited


Senior Care Solutions @ Home


W.C. Rowe (Falmouth) Limited


Fine Tubes / AMETEK Specialty Metal Products


Thirsty Work Limited


Learn’d Limited


Drakelands Restoration Limited (Tungsten West)


BN Care Holdings Limited


Goodridge Limited


Havana West Limited


Green Machine SW Limited


Principaux dossiers


  • Providing daily employment and immigration advice to Ocado Group Limited and support to Ocado’s large HR and management team through its internal query platform.
  • Advising The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust on all contentious and non-contentious employment law matters.
  • Advising W.C. Rowe (Falmouth) Limited, a large bakery business operating over 60 retail outlets and two purpose-built production facilities on employment tribunal claims, disciplinary, grievance, and sickness absence matters.

Foot Anstey

Foot Anstey supports leading companies through restructurings, corporate transactional support, and sensitive litigation, with specialised expertise in the retail, consumer, and public equity sectors. In Exeter, practice head Karen Bates has notable experience defending clients in tribunal claims, as well as advising on industrial relations strategy, while Truro-based Patrick Howarth specialises in trade union and collective bargaining issues. TUPE-expert Nathalie Ingles handles large scale redundancies and restructurings and Claire Holland comes recommended for her deep private equity expertise.

Responsables de la pratique:

Karen Bates


Autres avocats clés:

Patrick Howarth; Claire Holland; Nathalie Ingles; Gemma Robinson


Les références

‘We have always benefitted from the team’s calm and understanding manner. Their pragmatic style, coupled with clear explanations, makes for a disciplined approach. They have great interpersonal skills and are adept at offering considered thought, through explaining a range of options.’

‘My interactions with the team have always been professional, with them demonstrating a range of highly effective interpersonal skills.’

‘A team that get to know your business and the nuances so they can provide the best and pragmatic advice.’

Principaux clients

Admiral Group PLC


South Tees Development Corporation


Revolution Beauty PLC


Livewell Southwest CIC


Gregory Distribution


Allpoints Fibre Networks Limited


Danish Crown UK Ltd


White Bear Capital Limited


Stanley Capital Partners LLP


Trufin Plc


Rhubarb Food Design Limited/Oak View Group


Mega International Limited


Maven Search Limited


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised the Admiral Legal and HR Teams, primarily in respect of complex TUPE and IR35 matters.
  • Advising the Gregory Distribution HR team (including the HR team in Scotland) on a broad range of employment issues.
  • Advised the South Tees Development Corporation (STDC) and its associated group companies on the disposal of its private wire electricity network at the Teesworks Estate to a newly established joint-venture company, Steel River Power Limited, including advice and support on the requirements of TUPE to the same.

Michelmores LLP

Michelmores LLP stands out as a ‘forward-thinking and client-focused firm’, routinely sought after by household name clients for support on a broad spectrum of employment issues. In Exeter, James Baker leads the team, providing ‘clear, actionable advice’ on contentious and non-contentious matters, notably within the retail, financial service, and health sectors. Kate Gardner specialises in TUPE-related disputes, senior executive exists, and other employment tribunal disputes; Rachael Lloyd advises leading public sector, retail, and tech businesses in the UK and abroad; and the ‘stand-out’ Lynsey Blyth works between London and Exeter, handling large-scale claims concerning discrimination, unfair dismissal, and whistleblowing. In May 2024, Andrew Tobey stepped into a consultant role at the firm.

Responsables de la pratique:

James Baker


Autres avocats clés:

Kate Gardner; Lynsey Blyth; Rachael Lloyd; Andrew Tobey; Matt Warren


Les références

‘Michelmores combine the legal excellent of a ‘big’ firm with the one-to-one client care of a much smaller organisation.’

‘Lynsey Blyth is a stand-out partner whose enthusiasm, knowledge, and determination are second to none.’

‘Michelmores’ practice stands out for its exceptional commitment to client service. It is distinguished by its deep expertise across a broad range of legal areas, combined with a personalised approach to each client’s needs. The team at Michelmores is composed of highly skilled and experienced professionals who are not only knowledgeable but also approachable and responsive. I would like to mention Lynsey Blyth and James Baker, who are always available and always provide accurate advice, highlighting the risks and help with the action plan.’

Principaux clients

Forestry Commission


On-Running AG


Marylebone Cricket Club (Lords)


Burrington Estates


Gooch and Housego plc


Hawksmoor Investments


Bandvulc Tyres


Wilton Bradley Retail Group


LiveScore Group


Photo-Me International plc


British Beer & Pub Association


Otter Brewery Limited


Wild Planet Trust (Group of Zoological Parks)


Haynes Publishing Group plc


Relyon Beds Limited


Mint Velvet


Seasalt


Greenslade Taylor Hunt


South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWAST)


Bournemouth International Airport Limited


Cofton Country Holidays Limited


Holland & Barrett


Walter C Parsons Limited


Kensa Group of Companies


Red Winches Limited


Tarka Learning Partnership


Exeter Diocesan Education Network


Alumnis Multi Academy Trust


Herts Urgent Care Limited


The Cornbury Estates Company Limited


Heathcoat Fabrics Limited


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Holland and Barrett on complex TUPE issues on major acquisition.
  • Advised CDS on the employment implications of buying assets from Wilko and Homebase from administrators.
  • Advised the International Manufacturer of Industrial Goods on the successful implementation of new terms and conditions across multiple sites with the hostile unionised workforce.

Stephens Scown LLP

Combining a ‘deep legal expertise with a genuine commitment to client care’, Stephens Scown LLP‘s employment practice is well-equipped to handle the wide range of matters for both employers and employees operating in the South West. Led by Ellie Hibberd in Exeter, the team boasts dedicated litigation, corporate and employer support specialisms; Truro-based Joe Nicholls leads on high value litigation; Laura McFadyen handles the employment aspects of commercial transactions; while Hibberd, Verity Slater and Chris Morse support large employers in disputes and day-to-day HR matters. Matthew Huggett joined the litigation team in October 2024, handling whistleblowing and discrimination cases for both claimants and respondents. Senior associate Hazel Sanders is another key contact.

Responsables de la pratique:

Ellie Hibberd


Autres avocats clés:

Joe Nicholls; Verity Slater; Laura McFadyen; Hazel Sanders; Carrianne Matta


Les références

‘The team have an excellent knowledge of legislation to hand; very rarely do they have to consult with colleagues or come back at a later date with an answer. This instils a high degree of confidence that the staff are very competent and well-trained.’

‘The team are always happy to help, without exception on the rare occasions that we cannot speak to someone we have a call back extremely quickly. Turnaround times for documents are some of the quickest I have seen.’

‘Everyone that I have dealt with at the practice has been brilliant, very personable and knowledgeable. Their advice is always timely, thorough and practical and they consider the type of organisation that we are and take a keen interest in our culture and how we do things. I would highly recommend the team at Stephens Scown!’

Principaux clients

Age UK


Plymouth CAST (multi-academy trust of 36 catholic schools)


Exeter City Football Club


A.E Rodda & Sons


Trago Mills


BPA Quality


Falmouth University


Cornwall College


Seasalt Ltd


St Austell Brewery Co Ltd


UK Direct Business Solutions Ltd (energy consultancy)


Neo People Management


Principaux dossiers


  • Represented KJ in an employment tribunal claim against the British Council, arguing that she had been subjected to unlawful acts of harassment.

Ellis Jones Solicitors LLP

The employment team at Ellis Jones Solicitors LLP provides ‘excellent and timely advice’ to clients operating across a range of industries in the South West, including hospitality, education, charities and healthcare. With considerable employment tribunal litigation experience, the firm is well-equipped to assist both employers and employees in discrimination, unfair dismissal and breach of contract claims. Kate Brooks leads, combining deep litigation expertise with a robust non-contentious practice, advising clients on day-to-day HR matters and the employment aspects of corporate transactions. Associate Rebecca Goudy is another key contact, specialising in employment tribunal claims involving whistleblowing, discrimination and constructive dismissal.

Responsables de la pratique:

Kate Brooks


Autres avocats clés:

Rebecca Goudy


Les références

‘Ellis Jones are a fantastic company to use when seeking legal advice. We have been fortunate to deal with Kate Brooks who typifies the mindset and professionalism of Ellis Jones – an amazing team of people who are integral to providing our business with legal support.’

‘We were recommended to Kate Brooks at Ellis Jones in April 2024. Since then, Kate has supported us on several legal matters for our business. The service has been exemplary: Kate is extremely friendly, ultra professional, and very knowledgeable in her field of law. She has been invaluable to our business over the last 11 months, and we could not imagine using any other solicitor for advice and support moving forward.’

‘Excellent and timely advice.’

Principaux clients

Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra


Skechers USA


Christchurch Housing Association


Dorset Wildlife Trust


Ecosafe Group


Arden White


Old Dairy Farm Nursery


Principaux dossiers


  • Drafted the employer contracts, policies and training for a national business.
  • Represented a claimant in a race discrimination and breach of contract claim.
  • Provided bespoke and practical employment law and HR advice to a national company with international subsidiaries.

Lester Aldridge LLP

The employment practice at Lester Aldridge LLP is highlighted for its cross-sectoral offering that spans the full gamut of employment matters. At the helm, Kevin Barnett provides strategic advice to public and private sector clients on TUPE and business acquisitions, senior executive disputes and redundancies. Senior associate Edward O’Brien is another key member of the practice.

Responsables de la pratique:

Kevin Barnett


Autres avocats clés:

Edward O’Brien


Les références

‘Quick and responsive, providing detailed advice on your legal question. They ensure they understand the client’s needs thoroughly.’

‘Very responsive in advising on urgent related matters, clear and concise advice, with quick turnaround times.’

‘Approachable, professional and knowledgeable.’

Principaux clients

Lush Limited


Ceuta Holdings Limited


Osprey Europe Limited


Care South


Curtiss Wright Corporation


Global Maritime Consultancy Limited


WM Employers


Staffordshire County Council


Wildcat Marine Limited


Home Appliance Guard Ltd t/a Zest


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising an international manufacturing and retail business with over 12,000 employees on full range of employment law issues.
  • Advising a multi-site-based care home group on employment and immigration issues.
  • Providing employment advice to marine sector clients managing a disparate workforce based around the globe.

Steele Raymond LLP

Steele Raymond LLP‘s Bournemouth-based employment practice harnesses a multi-departmental approach to advise employers and senior executive clients on a mix of contentious and non-contentious employment issues. At the helm is Peter Rolph, a ‘first class practitioner’ who leverages more than four decades of employment law expertise to handle post-termination restrictions and executive exit strategy. In 2024, Dominic Holmes joined the employment team in a consultant role.

Responsables de la pratique:

Peter Rolph


Autres avocats clés:

Dominic Holmes


Les références

‘The strength of the personal relationship we have with Steele Raymond has been founded over many years. Their experience and approach has been invaluable in dealing with legal and commercial matters on our behalf.’

‘Peter Rolph: his wise counsel and experience in commercial matters has proved invaluable to us in many challenging matters over the years.’

‘The practice provides a very sensitive and supportive environment, I have engaged with the practice in many various situations over 20 years, requiring legal advice to enactment. At each stage gaining full confidence in sometimes difficult situations. I have never had any inclination to seek alternative support.’

Tozers Solicitors LLP

‘Balancing legal advice with pragmatism’, the team at Tozers Solicitors LLP acts for leading public sector, commercial and charitable organisations in the South West and beyond, with a notable specialism advising registered housing providers. Practice head Stephen Jennings and associate Joanna Parry are highly regarded for their robust employment tribunal expertise, representing clients in tribunal claims for unfair dismissal and discrimination, as well as handling non-contentious TUPE and redundancy matters. Jill Headford and Mai Mbye are also key contacts for respondent employment claims.

Responsables de la pratique:

Stephen Jennings


Autres avocats clés:

Joanna Parry; Jill Headford; Mai Mbye


Les références

‘The service and response time is fantastic. Their knowledge of employment law is extremely impressive. Their advice is always commercially-minded.’

‘I work closely with Stephen Jennings and Joanna Parry and both are extremely knowledgeable and responsive.’

‘Tozers have always been professional, supportive, cost-sensitive and timely in their responses. We have utilised their support for almost 10 years and see no reason to change to another company.’

Trowers & Hamlins LLP

Trowers & Hamlins LLP provides ‘tailored advice and guidance’ to a range of public and private sector clients on the gamut of employment issues, with notable expertise in TUPE and the employment elements of corporate transactions. John Turnbull heads the Exeter employment team, specialising in claims for discrimination and unfair dismissal, alongside non-contentious employment matters such as TUPE and due diligence. Turnbull is joined by senior associate Tom Stephenson, who advises on the employment aspects of M&A and private equity, as well as representing clients in tribunal litigation; Stephanie Taylor handles senior executive exits, redundancies and restructurings; and Annie Drew assists on non-contentious employment issues.

Responsables de la pratique:

John Turnbull


Autres avocats clés:

Tom Stephenson; Stephanie Taylor; Annie Drew


Les références

‘Trowers & Hamlins have provided us with employment law advice over many years and have always provided us with accurate and up-to-date advice. The team we liaise with are accessible and take the time to understand the matter in hand and the needs of our organisation.’

‘At Trowers & Hamlins we liaise with John Turnbull, Tom Stephenson and Stephanie Taylor. All are very approachable and have dealt with some very complex matters for us which have always been resolved effectively and efficiently. It’s a pleasure working with them.’

‘They understand our business, so provide tailored advice and guidance.’

Principaux clients

Smiths (Gloucester) Limited


Hyde Group


Richmond Housing Partnership


Niraj Madlani


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised digital transformation specialist, Proventeq, and its co-founders, on a multi-million pound investment from private equity house, BGF, which is set to fuel Proventeq’s growth across the UK, US, Europe and the Middle East.
  • Handled the employment aspects of a successful Employment Appeals Tribunal in the matter of Mr James Main v SpaDental Ltd and Timothy Close (in his capacity as Trustee in Bankruptcy of Mr Main) – 2024 EAT 200.
  • Acted for Renaissance Corporate Trustees and Highnam family shareholders on the sale of the entire issued share capital of Blackmore Vale Farm Cream Limited (BV Dairy) to First Milk.

Blanchards Bailey LLP

The employment and HR team at Blanchards Bailey LLP is distinguished by its dedicated HR consultancy services, with a team of employment solicitors and HR practitioners supporting regional clients in contentious and non-contentious matters. Managing Partner Paul Dunlop leads the team, leveraging extensive litigation expertise, while HR specialist Jane Cordner advises clients across the charity, education, construction and retail sectors. Consultant Sophia Radford joined the team in October 2024, specialising in employment and data protection matters. Stephen Woodman departed the firm in October 2024.

Responsables de la pratique:

Paul Dunlop


Autres avocats clés:

Jane Cordner; Sophia Radford


Les références

‘Jane Cordner has a can-do attitude and seeks solutions.’

‘The Blanchards Bailey LLP team were friendly, patient and proactive in supporting me through my case.’

‘I am very grateful for Sophia Radford’s unwavering support throughout this challenging process: her compassion, professionalism and tireless efforts have been a true blessing. ’

Frettens LLP

The Frettens LLP employment and HR team is a key port of call for clients across various sectors, including construction, education, and manufacturing. In Christchurch, the ‘excellent’ Michelle Kemp leads the team, acting for a longstanding clientele of employers in contentious and non-contentious matters, with notable employment tribunal experience across the country.

Responsables de la pratique:

Michelle Kemp


Autres avocats clés:

Kate Fretten


Les références

‘The people I deal with make an effort to know your business and what your needs are.’

‘Michelle Kemp heads a great team, providing a range of services with a personal touch, not a bland corporate service.’

‘Michelle Kemp is excellent.’

Principaux clients

New Milton Sand and Ballast


John Reid & Sons


Initio Learning Trust


IQ HealthTech Ltd


KDC Projects Ltd


Winterhalter Ltd


Jewish Care


Rocare Building Services


Principaux dossiers


  • Representing a client in defending a tribunal claim of automatically unfair dismissal arising as a result of the Claimant allegedly making a public interest disclosure, and claims of disability discrimination.
  • Represented a client in a a complex Employment Tribunal claim with the Claimant claiming £1.25m regarding claims for constructive unfair dismissal and various types of disability discrimination.
  • Advising regarding a large-scale structure involving changing terms and conditions of employment and redundancies with no subsequent claims.

GA Solicitors

GA Solicitors harnesses strong expertise in the care and health sector, and is geared to advise clients on employment disciplinaries, grievances and terminations. The team also boasts a robust employment tribunal practice, representing both employers and employees in disability discrimination, rule 50 applications and unfair dismissal claims. Plymouth-based Robert Zacal heads the employment team, advising clients on TUPE transfers and restructurings, while associate Kayleigh Arthurs handles new damages-based agreement matters.

Responsables de la pratique:

Robert Zacal


Autres avocats clés:

Kayleigh Arthurs


Les références

‘GA Solicitors have consistently provided us with excellent quality and efficient employment support for our clients.’

‘Their approachability and clear advice on every instruction makes them stand out, and nothing is too much trouble and no question is left unanswered. The turnaround of work is always efficient, and they appreciate urgency when raised.’

‘I was lucky enough to be recommended Robert Zacal. He – and his colleagues – were outstanding. I had constant empathy, experience, wisdom and support from Robert and his partners.’

Principaux clients

The PH Group Limited


Brittany Ferries (BAI (UK) Limited)


The Angel Foundation (God TV)


Morris Engineering Limited


Wolseley Community and Economic Development Trust


Peninsula Finance PLC


Toad Hall Cottages Limited


Aspen Waite Group


4D Architects Studio Limited


Westcotts (SW) LLP


Mech Tech Professionals


Marchand Petit


G&R Electrical Wholesalers Limited


ProDog Raw Limited


Foot Anstey Trust Corporation Limited


Michelmores Trust Corporation Limited


Pantaenius UK Limited


Abbeyfield Tamar Extra Care Society


Kitson Boyce LLP

Highlighted for its ‘personal, needs-led approach’, the employment team at Kitson Boyce LLP is well-equipped to support a range of regional, national and global commercial clients on the full breadth of their employment and HR needs. Torquay-based Jayme Nicholson specialises in the employment elements of corporate transactions, including sales and purchases, mergers and MBOs. In Plymouth, Rhodri Davey specialises in TUPE, discrimination and whistleblowing matters, while the ‘astute’ Rory Wakeling represents clients in multi-party respondent litigation.

Responsables de la pratique:

Jayme Nicholson; Rory Wakeling


Autres avocats clés:

Rhodri Davey


Les références

‘The employment law team at Kitsons provides a fantastic service that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend. Their breadth of legal knowledge, ability to get what my business needs and translate laws into workable, realistic solutions make their service invaluable in what can be challenging situations with employees.’

‘The stand out partners for me are Rhodri Davey, Jayme Nicholson and Rory Wakeling. I have work with all three on matters and all three have never failed to support and advise me to resolve matters swiftly and successfully.’

‘Kitson Boyce and their team offer a personal, needs-led approach. They take the time to understand the organisation or person they are advising and tailor their advice and approach accordingly. For me this is invaluable.’

Principaux clients

Guild of Construction Workers Limited


Braddicks Leisure Limited


Armada Investments Limited


Kilnbridge Construction Services Limited


Paramount 21 Limited


Trucksmith Limited


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised a national construction employment business in relation to a variety of claims against them.
  • Advised on the employment aspects of a multimillion sale of a group of care homes.

Murrell Associates LLP

Boutique firm Murrell Associates LLP combines a ‘very knowledgeable and personable’ approach to provide tailored advice to both employers and employees in the region. At the helm, Truro-based Melanie Rowe is recommended for her wide-ranging expertise, spanning employment tribunal litigation, corporate support and HR guidance. Associate Luke Smith leverages corporate law experience to advise on the employment aspects of commercial transactions, including settlement agreements and TUPE matters.

Responsables de la pratique:

Melanie Rowe


Les références

‘Having dealt with other firms before, Murrell’s professionalism stands out head and shoulders above the rest. Your case can be dealt with by any of the team without question. I will continue to use Murrells now and in the future with confidence.’

‘I specifically have has dealings with Melanie Rowe. Mel is very personable, and gives a strong professional opinion which I respect. She is able to rationalise cases extremely well and presents a case in a honest way, whilst having my best interests at the centre.’

‘Extremely knowledgeable: responsive to business needs.’

Principaux clients

The Travel Chapter Limited


Baker Tom Limited


Cockwells Classic and Modern Boatbuilding Limited


Cornwall Food and Drink Limited


Classic Cottages Limited


Very Clever Locums Limited t/a Tamar Pharmacy


SUMO Services Limited


South West Restaurants Limited t/a Hub Box


Oxi-Tech Solutions Limited


Codlaw Renewable Energy Limited


Jo Maynard Chartered Surveyor


Agricultural Valuer


Miller Commercial Limited


Trevibban Mill Ltd


Kernow Positive Support


Burdon Grange Care Home Limited


Inyanga Maritime Limited


Shareholders of Budock Vean Holdings Limited (holding company of Budock Vean Hotel)


P.A.V.H. International Limited


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising one of the UK’s leading holiday letting agencies on an ongoing basis with day-to-day contentious and non-contentious employment law support (including grievance issues, performance management and employee exits) and providing staff training.
  • Advising a managing director/Chief Executive officer with over 20 years’ service on his exit from a large manufacturing company including advising in relation to a high-value settlement agreement containing detailed provisions relating to bonus arrangements, post-termination restrictions and a virtual share scheme.
  • Assisting the firm’s corporate team in acting for the shareholders in respect of the sale of a hotel in Cornwall, involving the sale of the entire issued share capital of Budock Vean Holdings Limited.

Wollens

Leveraging ‘key local knowledge’, Wollens is well-positioned to advise leading employers and senior employees operating in the South West. Key areas of expertise include restrictive covenants, contractual negotiations and advisory support in corporate transactions. Jon Dunkley heads the newly founded regulatory department and is highlighted for his ‘absolutely phenomenal’ employment and HR support in a range of contentious and non-contentious matters. Dunkley is also noted for a strong employment tribunal practice, defending clients in discrimination and whistleblowing claims.

Responsables de la pratique:

Jon Dunkley


Les références

‘I found myself in an employment position that I had not previously encountered, I needed expert advise to be guided through the process. Wollens were warm, friendly and were there to guide me through the process in a professional manner. The whole team embrace their values and nothing was too much trouble.’

‘Their approach is detailed and covered all aspects of my requirement, Jon Dunkley was extremely knowledgeable and took the time to explain clearly and concisely, the environment and setting are first class and appropriate for the circumstances, I would not use any other company while Wollens are available.’

‘Wollens stands as a beacon of excellence within the legal community, offering a remarkable unique blend of innovative legal strategies, diverse talent and a collaborative culture.’

Principaux dossiers


  • Advised on a potential redundancy and TUPE transfers in the winding up of a deceased estate.
  • Represented a French employee on initiating employment settlement discussions.
  • Providing regulatory advice to a businesses on a share purchase agreement, which also included drafting settlement and service agreements.