“The LBLA asked Kennedy Cater to deliver the solicitors panel. We were really clear from the beginning that we didn’t just want a solicitor’s panel like anybody else’s”

“My experience with panels and contracts generally is that people set them up and then think “job done”. Thereafter there is a risk that those instructing external firms or barristers and those firms or clerks ignore the agreed rates and charging structure, and the contract is quietly forgotten. Our arrangement whereby Kennedy Cater monitor the cost and quality of the services provided by the panel firms means there is a real discipline, and the anticipated benefits and efficiencies agreed as part of the contract are achieved”

Hugh Peart, Head of Legal Services, London Borough of Harrow  

“So many great ideas and projects fail to reach their potential even after implementation but with Kennedy Cater driving the process forward the London Boroughs Legal Alliance has quickly become a successful working arrangement, and we are already seeing the cost saving benefits. If you are looking to set up a panel and collaborative legal arrangement I highly recommend getting them involved.”

Michael Cogher, Head of Legal Services, London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham, Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea

“Kennedy Cater recently assisted us with our procurement of online knowledge management resources. They cost-effectively managed the project, efficiently co-ordinating a number of collaborating local authorities with differing objectives enabling us all to make the most informed decision as to which of the options to procure. Kennedy Cater were also able to negotiate significantly discounted rates on our behalf. The end result was our procurement of the right system for Hounslow’s legal team at a cost that we would not have been able to achieve without them. I have no hesitation in recommending them.”

Richard Gruet, Deputy Borough Solicitor, London Borough of Hounslow

"I am confident that all the members of HALA will make substantial savings on their external legal costs enabling us to report to the Audit Commission positively on this breakthrough value for money initiative. Kennedy Cater has driven the process forward and continue to provide vital support and insight helping the members to capture the savings and value for money that we all set out to achieve.”

Katrina Robinson, Head of Legal Services, Viridian Housing

 “HALA is a big step forward in cost efficiency and the effective delivery of legal services for housing associations. We’re proud to be leading the way and are grateful to Kennedy Cater for the support and guidance that they have provided in making HALA a reality.”

Susan Hickey, Finance Director, Peabody