Each month we meet key stakeholders and business leaders in the social care sector. This month we meet Jade Kent, Senior Associate at Stephens Scown Solicitors. We caught up with Jade to discuss her passion for the healthcare sector, and how legal expertise can make a real difference for businesses and individuals in health and social care.
Jade, can you tell us about your work at Stephens Scown?
I work as a senior associate in the firm’s Corporate team with a focus on the healthcare sector. Even as a trainee, I was doing work in the care sector, supporting a breach of contract claim in relation to a care home. The case went all the way to the Royal Courts of Justice.
Since joining Stephens Scown’s specialist healthcare team, I’ve supported the huge growth of the sector within the company, and we continue to make great strides in working with those in the care field.
What does your work involve as part of the healthcare team?
My days are spent supporting healthcare businesses to buy and sell their assets, to refinance, restructure, and to sort out their governance. I’m also a key contact for care clients to help them access other services available at Stephens Scown too, such as regulatory, property, employment, and immigration. Having access to a whole range of expertise has been of great value to clients.
I also make sure I get out and meet people, and really integrate with others working in healthcare. I’ve been a guest on numerous podcasts, blogs, and attended conferences and events – both as guest and speaker. It’s through these interactions that I can really get a feel for what’s happening in the sector and understand what’s important to those working in healthcare and how I can best support their endeavours.
Why is it important for readers in health and social care to work with legal experts?
There are several reasons why lawyers can help businesses and individuals from across health and social care.
- To protect themselves first and foremost. We can help with any issues across a range of areas and ensure you’re making the right decisions, both for yourself and your business if applicable.
- To save time and money. For example lawyers can give you advice about the implications if you are looking to buy or sell a care home and can work with you to make sure the processes are followed to avoid delays, crucial if you’re working within a short timescale. They also spot issues at an early stage to avoid a costly fix later on down the line.
- To give peace of mind. We know that people often come to lawyers as a last resort or only at times of need. Our job is to provide clear guidance and lay out your options. Talking to us as soon as possible in a matter will help ensure you’re armed with all the facts and prepared to move forward with a clear plan.
- To access expert knowledge. Chances are, we’ve dealt with issues like yours on numerous occasions, so we’re perfectly placed to help guide you through whatever challenge you’re facing.
Given your work as a lawyer in health and social care, how do you champion the sector?
It’s an area I’m hugely passionate about, and have led Stephens Scown’s growth in the area, recognising the value it has in society. The firm is committed to supporting and working with our local communities – we’re employee-owned and B Corp™ certified, which is the gold standard of ethical business, and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to balancing people, planet, and profit.
I’m a Championing Social Care Ambassador and recently volunteered at the annual ball. The events, conferences, blogs, and podcasts are another way I like to shout about the sector and raise awareness of the great work being done by people throughout health and social care.
I try to facilitate connections within the sector, whether that’s care home clients to share ideas on recruitment and retention, data protection colleagues with a care software provider, or team up a social care consultant with a client who has sold up and moved on to new ventures.
Ultimately, I want to share the amazing work being carried out across the country and support in any way I can those who are making a difference.
@stephensscown
stephens-scown.co.uk
