Who we are
Hempsons is a leading UK law firm specialising in the health, social care and charity sectors. For decades, we have advised organisations on the complex legal, regulatory and commercial issues that shape the delivery of public services and social impact. As part of HF, we deliver the practical, high-quality advice our clients rely on, with the added benefit of leading-edge technology, innovation and scale.
Our reputation is built on trusted relationships, deep sector knowledge and a clear focus on solutions that help clients achieve better outcomes. With offices in London, Harrogate, Manchester, Newcastle and Southampton, we combine national reach with local insight to support clients across the country.
Part of the HF group of companies
| Hempsons is part of the HF group of companies. Our combination of exceptional legal expertise and deep sector knowledge, alongside innovative technology and approaches, provides our clients with a broad, commercial, and people-centred range of services. |  |
Who we work with
We act for clients across the public, private and voluntary sectors. In the NHS, we advise more than 180 organisations, including trusts, foundation trusts, integrated care boards and NHS England teams. We also support private healthcare providers and individual practitioners, including GPs, dentists and consultants.
Our charity law practice is consistently recognised as one of the UK’s leading teams, advising over 160 charities and not-for-profit organisations — from national bodies to social enterprises and community organisations.
What we do
We provide a full range of legal services across the health, social care, charity and private sectors. Our multi-disciplinary teams combine specialist legal expertise with deep sector understanding to deliver practical, outcome-focused advice.
As part of HF, we complement this sector focus with access to advanced technology and a wider pool of expertise, enhancing the way we support our clients with the responsive, personal service that defines Hempsons.
We are committed to quality, continuous improvement and client care. Our work is guided by rigorous professional standards and a proactive approach to development.
Our accreditations include Lexcel, Investors in People, ISO 9001, ISO 27001, ISO 14001 and Cyber Essentials Plus — reflecting our belief that excellent client service is built on a culture of skilled expertise and continual learning alongside inclusivity and accountability.
Our history
Hempsons has been at the forefront of healthcare, social care and charity law for over 130 years. Founded in 1890 by William Ernest Hempson, the firm quickly established itself as a pioneer in medico-legal work, acting for the Medical Defence Union from 1893 and building a reputation that continues today.
We have long supported both the health and voluntary sectors. By the mid-20th century, we were advising organisations including the Royal Colleges, and the NSPCC became a client in 1944. This close alignment between health, care and charity law remains a defining feature of Hempsons.