Following a competitive tender process, full-service law firm Shakespeare Martineau has been appointed to Midland Heart’s legal services framework agreement.
Under the three-year framework, the firm will deliver a comprehensive range of legal services spanning HR, employment, payroll and health and safety; housing litigation and management; treasury, finance and contracts; and property, development and building safety.
Midland Heart is one of the largest housing associations in the Midlands, owning and managing 35,000 affordable properties across the region, serving 51 local authorities and providing homes to more than 70,000 people.
Emma Joy Smith (pictured), head of affordable housing sales at Shakespeare Martineau, said: “We are delighted to have been appointed to Midland Heart’s legal services framework, strengthening a relationship that has been close to my heart for more than 26 years.
“As a firm, we have supported Midland Heart with property work long before this successful tender. On a personal note, I started my career with the organisation – then known as Coventry Churches Housing Association – and they played a pivotal role in my development, supporting my studies and professional growth.
“Over the years, I have witnessed their transformation through mergers into the organisation they are today, and it is a privilege to now lead a team that will continue to support their mission of providing high-quality, affordable homes.”
Paul Nimmo, director of commercial finance at Midland Heart, added: “In order to achieve the very best for our tenants and deliver the homes the region needs, strong governance is essential and that’s where our partnerships will play a key role. We’re pleased to be continuing our collaboration with Shakespeare Martineau and look forward to working with them over the course of our next corporate plan.”
Shakespeare Martineau’s social housing team has recently rebranded as affordable housing – a shift that reflects the firm’s commitment to working in partnership with registered providers to ensure homes are dignified, accessible and sustainable.
The affordable housing team brings together more than 20 specialists who operate nationwide and are supported by the firm’s 1,200-strong network. The team is recognised for its expertise in land acquisition for the housing sector, combining legal excellence with commercial insight to deliver practical, effective solutions.
The team works closely with colleagues across disciplines – from property disputes and planning to construction and tax – to address every aspect of the property cycle and secure the best outcomes for clients.
