Midlands-based not-for-profit Grace Cares has secured new support from UK and Ireland law firm Browne Jacobson to help expand its innovative Circular Care Crew project. This sustainability-led initiative rescues, refurbishes and redistributes pre-loved care equipment to those who need it most.
The partnership will allow Grace Cares to significantly increase its reach across Staffordshire and the West Midlands, areas served by both organisations. The funding comes at a crucial time as demand for the service continues to grow, driven by rising costs of care equipment and a growing awareness of environmental responsibility within the health and social care sectors.
Founded in 2023, Grace Cares has already diverted more than 2,500 pieces of care equipment from landfill, supported over 3,500 individuals and care providers, and formed partnerships with five NHS Trusts, local authorities, and community groups. Its van, introduced in 2024 with support from the Aviva Environmental Impact Award, now travels the region collecting and delivering items that would otherwise go to waste.
The van was recently given a new look as part of the organisation’s 2025 Intergenerational Campaign, featuring student-designed artwork on themes of kindness, sustainability, and care. It was unveiled at the historic Lichfield Bower procession and now serves as a mobile symbol of climate and community action.
Grace Cares Co-founder Hannah Montgomery said the new partnership with Browne Jacobson marks a significant milestone for the organisation.
“Browne Jacobson’s support will help us take the next step in scaling our impact. This project is not just about equipment. It’s about independence, dignity and supporting health and care systems in a more sustainable way.”
The Circular Care Crew offers an environmentally and socially conscious alternative to landfill, supplying mobility aids and care equipment at significantly reduced prices (often less than half the retail cost) while also creating job opportunities and reducing barriers for housebound individuals.
Browne Jacobson made the donation of £2,980 via the Browne Jacobson Charitable Trust (BJCT), which has donated more than £170,000 to 129 charities since 2018.
The BJCT is funded by a contribution from the Browne Jacobson partnership to provide small donations to local charities in the local communities near to its offices. It prioritises supporting causes that are important to Browne Jacobson employees, who must be involved with or have a strong connection to the charity.
Browne Jacobson associate Kyleigh Bland, who supported the bid, said: “The Browne Jacobson Charitable Trust reflects our firm’s commitment to supporting our communities and tackling some of society’s biggest issues, a core value of our firm.
“With its genuine community impact and commitment to environmental responsibility, Grace Cares is exactly the type of initiative we are passionate about supporting.
“The fact that it specifically targets the health and care sector is also important to us as this aligns with one of our specialist areas. We look forward to seeing how this partnership helps the charity to scale its impact.”
In recognition of the partnership, Grace Cares has also invited the legal firm’s staff to get involved through volunteering and outreach.
Since its launch, Grace Cares has won multiple national awards for its sustainability and innovation, including recognition from Aviva, the Social Care Leadership Awards and Lichfield District Council.
With the Circular Care Crew poised to double its throughput over the next year, this new chapter is set to bring lasting benefits to individuals, communities, and the planet alike.
Image depicts Lawrence Smith, Adam Harrision, Emma Smith from Grace Cares