A multitude of specialists oversee the social housing practice at Forbes Solicitors which is well-equipped to assist registered provider clients nationwide. The team’s workload ranges from advising on the acquisition of large-scale portfolios, to handling sensitive sheltered housing scheme matters. Housing and regeneration issues are Catherine Kennedy‘s area of expertise, and Siobhan Hardy leads the contentious side of the practice. The team has capabilities in anti-social behaviour and housing management, which is Shirley Faragher’s primary area of expertise, while Daniel Milnes covers the procurement and information aspects of work. Jonathan Holden focuses on the employment aspects of matters. Lachlan McLean is a key member of the team, as is Kirsty Varley.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Forbes are clear, visible, consistent and approachable. They provide sound advice, support and guidance. They are professional and invested in providing high-quality support which is open and upfront.’
‘Advice is sound, clear and consistent. Lachlan McLean always gives prompt responses and passes information to colleagues to ensure they can advise us well. Their team provide genuine care and support for the situation, and can empathise as well as provide strong legal advice.'
‘Lachlan McLean is responsive. Daniel Milnes, Catherine Kennedy, Sam Gorrell, Jacob McGrath, Rachel Rann and Shirley Faragher all provide great service and explanations to clients. The list could go on!'
‘The service is unique because when dealing with Forbes it is like talking to a normal person who has no issues in explaining in layman's terms what is required, the thresholds, the likelihood of outcomes, and best practice.’
‘The entire team are wonderful - nothing is too much for them. They are amazing at communicating with us, keeping us up-to-date, I always understand what is required of me. Shirley Faragher is very personable, approachable and down-to-earth and always completely prepared for every possible eventuality. She is completely confident in court and unintimidated.'
‘Highly qualified experts who are always willing to help their clients achieve a good outcome. Their advice and guidance on cases is invaluable. From the minute you instruct Forbes, you instantly know the case is in good hands, will be dealt with and handled well and you don't have to worry.'
‘Lyndsay Baxter is thorough and diligent while also respecting strict timescales, making our deadlines her deadlines without compromise.’
‘Lauren Fisher and Catherine Kennedy are always on-hand to work through matters with you; a sensible, commercial approach and a wide knowledge of the sector gives reassurance you are working with the best. They take the time to understand client needs. No ask is ever too much. They go above and beyond on a daily basis.’
Key clients
- Together Housing
- Lincolnshire Housing Partnership
- Progress Housing
- Onward
- South Yorkshire Housing Association
- Salix Homes
- Community Gateway
- Mosscare St Vincent's
- EMH
- ONGO
Work highlights
- Acting for a Registered Provider who intended to bid for a portfolio of 849 properties in 3 regions of England to be acquired from another Registered Provider.
- Assisted on a complex case involving residents of a sheltered housing scheme where all parties had significant vulnerabilities and mental health issues.
- Assisted Registered Provider to provide support for an innovative project which seeks to both reduce fuel poverty as a well as capitalise on the RP’s estate.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Lachlan McLean
Next generation partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Kirsty Varley
Practice head
Catherine Kennedy; Siobhan Hardy; Shirley Faragher; Daniel Milnes; Jonathan Holden
Other key lawyers
Bethany Paliga; Laura Rae; Lachlan McLean; Sam Gorrell; Jacob McGrath; Rachel Rann; Kirsty Varley; Lyndsay Baxter; Lauren Fisher