Who? Stephen Scott, partner, real estate disputes at Shakespeare Martineau, London.
Why is he in the news? The firm became the official legal partner of a new football safety app backed by former England striker Emile Heskey.
Thoughts on the venture: ‘The Football Safety App was born from the recognition that there was a significant gap in how abuse in football is reported and addressed. The directors and the app’s creator, Cayson Global, including Emile Heskey (a fellow non-executive director and colleague of mine at another local company), saw the need for a platform that makes reporting simple, direct and accessible to everyone. Too often, traditional reporting systems involve multiple layers of bureaucracy, which can be discouraging and slow for those affected. The goal was to streamline that process by creating an easy-to-use tool that anyone, from fans to players, can access for free.
‘From a legal perspective, the app represents more than just a reporting tool; it is a catalyst for systemic change. Shakespeare Martineau will play a crucial role in navigating the legal complexities, from ensuring data protection compliance, to intellectual property protection and end-user contracts, to advising on the broader legal implications of abuse prevention.
‘Our hope is that this platform becomes a cornerstone for creating a safer, more inclusive environment in football, empowering people to speak out and ensuring their voices are heard.’
Dealing with the media: ‘Given Emile’s profile and the growing attention on abuse in football, we anticipated strong media interest from the outset. Our approach was to be open and transparent, focusing on the purpose of the app and the larger need for safer reporting mechanisms, rather than the headlines.’
Why become a lawyer? ‘At 10, I shadowed my late father’s friend, a solicitor, during a half-term holiday. That’s when I knew I wanted to be a lawyer. His stories and genuine care for clients left a lasting impression.’
Career high: ‘Joining Shakespeare Martineau and becoming the client lead partner for sports sector work.’
Career low: ‘It is challenging to navigate the uncertainty in real estate. The cyclical nature of the market often means that clients face hesitation in proceeding with plans, especially in property development. It would be ideal for them to feel more confident, but the volatility of the sector presents ongoing challenges.’
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