Following a rigorous independent assessment process, south west law firm, Stephens Scown LLP, has become the latest UK business to become a certified B Corporation.
B Corp certification requires a holistic review of a business’ social and environmental performance, accountability and transparency, and is based on a vision of creating a community of for-profit companies committed to redefining success in business.
Stephens Scown, which has offices in Truro, St Austell and Exeter, is just one of a handful of law firms in the UK to achieve B Corp status – and the only one in the south west.
Managing partner, Richard Baker, said: “At Stephens Scown, we have always cared about doing things the right way for our people, our clients, our planet and our community.
“As the first large law firm in the UK to become employee-owned, we have built a dynamic and innovative business dedicated to delivering for its clients and providing a rewarding and supportive workplace. Gaining our B Corp certification underlines our long-term commitment to also being a force for good in wider society.
“With the backdrop of global challenges to tackle and the ongoing threat to our environment, it is vital that we showcase just how we are making a difference and that we are part of a much bigger movement, proving there is a better way to do business.”
Empowering employees to do good through four key pillars of fundraising, volunteering, pro bono work and reducing the business’ environmental impact, the firm’s Giving Back programme was first set up in 2018.
Verity Slater, Giving Back partner and a driving force in the firm’s B Corp verification process, said: “I am really pleased to report a strong engagement with our Giving Back programme this year. The whole firm’s enthusiasm and awareness of our drive to be a force for good has been noticeable.
“Undertaking the B Corp verification process has embedded this yet further and I am looking forward to the additional positive changes and initiatives that will come this year.”
