Environmental commitment and sustainability initiatives
Net zero carbon emissions and energy efficiency
Stephensons is dedicated to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, as outlined in our carbon reduction plan, which includes detailed calculations for Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions. A significant step towards this goal is our photovoltaic (PV) system at the Wigan Investment Centre, generating approximately 30% of our energy needs from solar power annually. This initiative exemplifies our commitment to reducing our reliance on non-renewable energy sources and lowering our carbon footprint.
Agile working and waste reduction
Our agile working model allows most of our staff to work remotely for a significant portion of the week, reducing the need for daily commuting and thus decreasing our overall environmental impact. We have calculated that if one person drives 30 miles per day, then that equates to 808 grams of carbon dioxide emissions released into the atmosphere per day. Stephensons have circa 240 people now working agile and attending the office two days per week, driving around 30 miles per day on average. This means that by working at home the rest of the time, there has been a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by 56.16528tCO2 per year. In addition to operating in a paperlite manner, Stephensons actively recycles a significant proportion of materials, including ink cartridges, toners, batteries, paper/cardboard, IT and phone equipment, and office furniture. These practices not only minimise waste but also promote the responsible use of resources. To demonstrate the impact this has, we have measured that from April 2023 - April 2024 Stephensons recycled 24 tonnes of paper. Every tonne equates to 20 trees. Stephensons have therefore recycled the equivalent of 480 trees.
Social responsibility and community engagement
Supporting charities and community organisations
Stephensons has a longstanding tradition of supporting local charities and community organisations. Between April 2023 and April 2024, we contributed over £18,000 to The Brick, a charity dedicated to helping individuals rebuild their lives. Additionally, we provide time and financial support to a variety of charities, including:
- Wigan & Leigh Hospice: A charity providing care and support to people diagnosed with life-limiting illnesses that are no longer curable.
- Wigan Youth Zone: A state-of-the-art youth facility in Wigan offering young people the opportunity to meet new friends, have new experiences, learn new skills, and access the support they need to develop and achieve their potential.
- RoadPeace: A charity that provides information and support services to people bereaved or seriously injured in road crashes and engages in evidence-based policy and campaigning work to fight for justice for victims and reduce road danger.
- Limbless Association: A national charity supporting and empowering amputees to lead independent and fulfilled lives.
- Joining Jack: A charity founded by the parents of young boy Jack Johnson, who was diagnosed with a debilitating muscular disease.
- Brake: A charity working to stop road deaths and injuries, support people affected by road crashes, and campaign for safe and healthy mobility for all.
- Atherton & Leigh Foodbank: A local food bank providing essentials to disadvantaged people in the area.
Inclusive employment practices and career development
As a significant employer in the Wigan area, Stephensons is committed to inclusive employment practices. We collaborate with the local authority on projects aimed at employing disadvantaged individuals, including care leavers, in apprenticeship and permanent roles. We have offered apprenticeship for several years. Since January 2023, we have offered 16 apprenticeship opportunities across various departments, supporting professional growth and career development. This initiative aligns with our commitment to providing high-quality employment opportunities in areas with high deprivation
“The firm has always recruited local people at entry level positions and is a big user of apprenticeship programmes. Staff retention is very good, and many people have long service with the firm” (Lexcel Assessor Report 2024)
Staff volunteering and community involvement
Our staff demonstrate a strong commitment to community service, dedicating nearly 140 hours monthly in voluntary roles such as trustees, coaches, and mentors. This substantial contribution highlights our team’s dedication to giving back and supporting various community initiatives and organisations.
Governance and ethical business practices
Access to legal services and advocacy
At Stephensons, we believe in the fundamental right to legal access as a cornerstone of a cohesive community. Our legal call centre assists approximately 100,000 people annually, providing vital support in areas such as child care, discrimination, and adult social care. Stephensons has a solid track record of providing services to public bodies and other social purpose organisations. But the bedrock of our firm is to provide easily accessible legal services to large numbers of ordinary people, coming to us directly. We are based in the Northwest but we do this on a national basis. We provide services in areas that many other lawyers have withdrawn from, and we change lives for the better by doing so.
Efficiency and responsible resource management
Our governance practices include a centralised administration system that enhances operational efficiency and reduces waste. By embracing paperlite operations and promoting the recycling of materials, we ensure that our resource management practices are aligned with our broader sustainability goals.
Stephensons is committed to creating social value by integrating environmental, social, and governance principles into our daily operations. Through our comprehensive initiatives, we aim to foster a more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable society. Our dedication to community support, environmental sustainability, and ethical governance reflects our commitment to making a positive and lasting impact on the world around us.
