Responsible business approach supports growth at HCR Law

Supporting our people, contributing to local communities and managing our environmental impact have long been part of how HCR Law operates.

Our Responsible Business Report 2025–26 demonstrates the impact we’re making to clients, current and prospective colleagues and the communities where our offices are based. It highlights the firm’s progress across environmental sustainability, staff wellbeing, equality, diversity and inclusion, community engagement and early careers development.

During the year 2025–26, the firm reduced its total emissions by 7%, despite a 17% increase in turnover, as part of its commitment to achieving net zero by 2040. HCR also continues to invest in colleague wellbeing through Smart Working, staff-led initiatives and a range of benefits designed to support physical, mental and financial wellbeing.

The firm has strengthened opportunities for future legal talent through partnerships with schools, colleges and universities, alongside initiatives such as HCR Spark and the Hewitson Grant, which provide mentoring, work experience and financial support.

Apprenticeships also remain a key part of HCR’s commitment to widening access and supporting social mobility, while the firm’s approach to equality, diversity and inclusion focuses on ensuring talent is the determining factor in opportunity.

Community impact continues to be a major focus. Over the years, HCR has raised £2m for charities through staff-led fundraising and community initiatives, while colleagues also contribute through volunteering and pro bono support. Programmes such as Impact55, which provides legal funding to start-ups using technology to create positive social or environmental change, help maximise the firm’s social impact through its business connections.

Rod Thomas, Managing Partner, said: “We have always taken our responsibilities seriously: in how we run our business and support our people, in our contribution to local communities, and in the way we manage our environmental impact.

“I believe our approach is authentically HCR – staff-led, meaningful to those involved and grounded in our local communities – and that is why it works.”

If you want to be part of a firm where you can grow, contribute and make a difference, HCR offers the opportunity to do just that.

Find out more in our Responsible Business Report 2025–26.