Tozers is delighted to celebrate the Dame Hannah Rogers Trust’s recent success in repurchasing their Ivybridge site, which they were sadly forced to sell as part of a restructuring in 2019. We are proud to have played a role in helping the Trust achieve this important milestone, ensuring a stable future for the vital services they provide to young adults with disabilities across the South West.
Having provided a wide range of legal support to the Trust over many years, including assistance during its 2019 restructuring, we worked closely with James Derrick, Director of Finance, and the board of Trustees at Dame Hannah Rogers Trust to navigate the complexities of this latest transaction and help secure a successful outcome.
By bringing together diverse expertise across our full-service law firm, we ensured a collaborative approach for our client. Led by Catriona Yates, our Commercial Property Team managed the legal advisory work on the property aspects of the freehold purchase, including bank financing and security arrangements. This involved comprehensive due diligence and the drafting of key transaction documents and negotiating these with the Trust’s landlord, The Edward Gostling Foundation, and the bank’s legal representatives.
Additionally, our Charities and Social Enterprise team, led by Partner James Evans, provided legal support on corporate and charity law matters, ensuring compliance with the Charities Act and guiding the trustees through the necessary governance processes and formal resolutions to approve the transaction.
James Derrick, Director of Finance at Dame Hannah Rogers Trust, shared his excitement regarding the acquisition: “We are thrilled with the repurchase of our Ivybridge site, which is a significant step forward for the Dame Hannah Rogers Trust. This acquisition not only restores control over our facilities but also reinforces our commitment to providing exceptional care and support for young adults with disabilities. We are grateful for the unwavering support from our partners, including Tozers Solicitors, who have been instrumental in navigating this complex process. Working closely with Catriona Yates and James Evans, we felt reassured knowing we had a knowledgeable and committed partner by our side. Their collaborative approach not only facilitated a smooth transaction but also empowered us to focus on our mission of supporting young adults with disabilities. We are now poised to move forward with our plans for the Ivybridge site, ensuring a bright future for the Trust and those we serve."
James Evans commented on the transaction: “We are delighted to have played a part in such a significant turnaround for the Trust. Having worked with James and the Dame Hannahs team for several years, it is heart-warming to know they can now progress their plans to renovate the site and continue providing residential care services for disabled young people across the region.”
The Trust, which employs nearly 200 staff and has a network of volunteers across Devon and Cornwall, has been a beacon of support for young adults with disabilities. As it prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary in Ivybridge, the Trust looks forward to further growth and the continuation of its legacy, ensuring that it can provide essential services for generations to come.
For more information about Tozers LLP and our work with the Dame Hannah Rogers Trust, please contact us at enquiries@tozers.co.uk or call 01392 207020.
