Shoosmiths’ Northern Ireland team has led for private equity client BGF in the company’s first investment into a female-powered business since it committed at least £300m to the Invest in Women Taskforce’s funding pot, to support scaling female-powered businesses over the next five years. BGF has made a multi-million-pound investment in CWC Group, a family-owned specialist care provider, based in County Down, Northern Ireland.
First founded in 1983, by sisters-in-law Monica Byrne and Imelda McGrady, CWC Group is a healthcare company that provides high-quality domiciliary, residential nursing and disability care, across seven locations throughout Northern Ireland. The business continues to be family-run, now operated by Monica’s daughters: Chief Executive Aisling Byrne and Chief Learning & Development Officer Shauna Byrne.
Earlier this year, BGF pledged over £3bn to back British businesses over the next five years, at least £300m of which would go to female-powered businesses.
Leading for BGF on the deal, the Shoosmiths team was spearheaded by Partner Grant Edwards with the support of Senior Associate Laura Leatham on corporate aspects. Partner Sarah Ewing and Associate Grace Rivers advised on real estate requirements, while Legal director Charlotte Thomas, Principal Associate Michael Kelly and Senior Associate Jonny Adamson provided advice on banking matters.
Corporate Partner Grant Edwards said: “It is a privilege to partner with clients like BGF as they take this step towards a more balanced, inclusive entrepreneurial economy. The firm’s work on this deal exemplifies Shoosmiths’ commitment to supporting work that creates an impact in Northern Ireland and communities across the UK.
Andy Gregory, CEO of BGF, commented: “CWC Group has been built on deep expertise and a profound commitment to care. What stands out is not just the strength of its services, but the calibre and vision of its leadership. We’re proud for this to be our first investment, since making our £300 million commitment to female-powered businesses.
“As a founding member of the Invest in Women Taskforce, we have reaffirmed our determination to help shape a more balanced and representative entrepreneurial economy — one that reflects the full spectrum of talent across the UK.”
