Award win for Manchester Arena Civil Litigation Team

Last night, the Manchester Arena Civil Litigation Team was honoured with the Personal Injury/Clinical Negligence Team of the Year award, recognising the collective efforts of the committee of law firms and Chambers that has represented victims, survivors and bereaved families affected by the Manchester Arena terror attack in the civil process.

For Slater and Gordon, alongside Hudgell Solicitors, Jackson Lees, Byrom Street Chambers and Temple Garden Chambers, this is an incredibly proud moment and one that reflects years of dedication, commitment and determination in supporting those impacted by one of the darkest moments in Manchester's history.

Nearly a decade on from the attack, many survivors and bereaved families continue to live with the profound and lasting effects of that night. Throughout the process, the committee has had the privilege of standing alongside clients, helping them navigate complex legal proceedings while ensuring their voices were heard.

What makes this recognition particularly significant is the unique way in which it was achieved. In an industry where claimant firms are often viewed as competitors, the Manchester Arena Civil Litigation Team brought together leading law firms and chambers in a rare and highly effective collaboration, united by a single goal: achieving the best possible outcomes for their clients.

By working collectively rather than individually, the committee was able to share expertise, resources and insight, ensuring a coordinated approach in the civil litigation process. At every stage, the focus remained firmly on the needs of survivors and bereaved families rather than the interests of any one organisation. This collaborative approach helped ensure not only that clients received the support, accountability and justice they deserved, but also that their experiences contributed to meaningful change.

Through the inquiry and civil claims process, important lessons have been identified around security, preparedness, information sharing and emergency response. The courage shown by survivors and bereaved families in sharing their experiences has played a vital role in helping to drive those lessons forward, contributing to a greater understanding of the failings that preceded the attack and the changes needed to better protect the public in the future.

Kim Harrison, head of abuse law and public inquiries at Slater and Gordon, said:

"This award is a reflection of what can be achieved when lawyers put competition aside and work together in the best interests of their clients. The collaboration between the claimant firms and chambers involved in this case has been truly exceptional and demonstrates the power of a united approach when representing people affected by a tragedy of this scale.

"Over the past nine years, we have worked collectively to ensure that survivors and bereaved families were not only heard, but that their experiences helped drive meaningful change.

"While we are honoured to receive this recognition, the true credit belongs to our clients. Their resilience, determination and commitment to seeking answers and accountability have been remarkable. It has been a privilege to stand alongside them throughout that process."

We are grateful to every client who placed their trust in us during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. It has been a privilege to represent and support them throughout and our thoughts, as ever, are with them.

Congratulations to everyone involved in this important work. This award is one we share with our fellow committee firms and chambers, whose collaboration has made such a meaningful difference. It stands as recognition not only of a successful legal outcome, but of what can be achieved when legal professionals work together with a shared commitment to delivering justice, accountability and lasting change.