Disability equality charity, Scope, has appointed Carter Jonas as its estate adviser to provide management, strategy, planning, architectural and building consultancy services. Carter Jonas’ remit also extends to all property transactions, including acquisitions and disposals, as well as lease renewals and rent reviews.

Established in 1952, Scope raises awareness and works to change attitudes and behaviours towards disabled people to achieve a society where all disabled people enjoy equality and fairness.

Carter Jonas’ appointment follows a number of significant developments for the charity, including the progression of an estate strategy to support the charity’s focus on advocacy, information and support; this included the sale of 21 residential care homes to a private provider in 2017. In August last year, Scope welcomed Fergal Reavey as Head of Property to manage its 225 retail store portfolio as well as a handful of other properties and arable land. Fergal joined from Dogs Trust having previously spent 12 years at Bee Bee Developments. Further, Scope’s Board recently approved plans to increase the quantity of its larger furniture and electrical stores.

Carter Jonas was appointed by competitive tender to support Reavey and the Board with their approach. The contract will be delivered from across Carter Jonas’ network of 33 UK offices comprising its commercial, planning, development, rural and residential teams. Further support with design and condition surveys will be provided by the firm’s architecture and building consultancy practice. The firm is also assisting Scope in the development of a prioritised planned maintenance programme with particular emphasis on health & safety for its staff, volunteers and customers, including improving accessibility.

Fergal Reavey, Head of Property, Scope said: “Scope is delighted to announce Carter Jonas as our property partner. They have the national coverage and expertise we require whilst retaining a genuine interest in a close and dedicated service. We are putting the infrastructure in place to make sure that we successfully manage our property now and, in the future, to help deliver our mission of Everyday Equality.”

Ian Southall, Partner, Commercial, Carter Jonas said: “To be involved in the delivery of Scope’s estate strategy is an enormous privilege for Carter Jonas. An efficient portfolio is very often the bedrock of a successful institution, and we feel very fortunate to be able to help Scope unlock the potential of its estate. The results of our work will release additional time and resource, enabling focus to be directed at the charity’s core business, and helping its team to deliver their vital long-term goals.”