MSB Solicitors’ associate solicitor Michael Boland has been named Future Leader at the British LGBT Awards.
The awards are held to recognise the individuals, organisations and businesses that have made a significant contribution to advancing equality, inclusion and support for LGBTQ+ communities across the UK.
Boland (pictuted, centre) was presented with the award in recognition of his commitment to championing diversity, inclusion and equal access to legal representation for LGBTQ+ individuals. He said: “I was delighted to be shortlisted alongside so many inspiring individuals, but to win this award is an incredible honour and something I am extremely proud of.
“Early in your career, it can sometimes be difficult to feel completely comfortable in being yourself. I’ve always tried to be open and authentic, and I hope this recognition shows that you don’t have to hide who you are to succeed professionally.
“Being a positive role model for members of the LGBTQ+ community is something that means a great deal to me, and I’m grateful to work for a firm that places such importance on diversity, inclusion and creating opportunities for everyone to thrive.”
Hall Brown Family Law has been named one of the UK’s Best Places to Work for the third year in a row.
The firm has been recognised as one of the 10 very best medium-sized companies in the annual listing compiled by the Sunday Times. Hall Brown has also earned its first commendation as one of the country’s four best workplaces for women.
Managing partner James Brown said the honour was particularly special as it came just weeks after Hall Brown’s 10th anniversary.
“When we launched, we were determined not only to provide the very highest standard of client support possible but to be the kind of place where people really wanted to work,” he said.
“In that sense, being classed with the other great organisations on the Sunday Times’ list is a genuine achievement and source of immense satisfaction.
“To retain our place on that list three years in a row shows that we have certainly not rested on our laurels but have continued to live up to our original objective.
“Being included as one of the best workplaces for women is something which we are also incredibly proud of.
“What it all shows is that we place an emphasis both on recruiting some very talented individuals and investing time and effort looking after them once they join us.”
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.
