Helen Woodford has joined the Pensions team on a permanent basis, following her recent involvement with the firm in a consultancy role.

Helen is a highly experienced pensions lawyer, having specialised in this area for over twenty years working previously in large national law firms.

Working from Wrigleys' Newcastle and Leeds offices, Helen acts for regional and nationwide clients.

Helen's practice involves advising pension scheme trustees and sponsors on all aspects of pensions law. Her client base has straddled many sectors including energy, manufacturing, retail, transport and financial institutions.

Helen has also acted for pension trustee boards and employers operating within the not-for-profit sector, often advising on issues concerning participation in public sector pension schemes (being chair of trustees of a North-east based charity, Helen understands first hand the challenges of running a charity, including their governance requirements).

Helen said: "I am thrilled to have joined Wrigleys' Pensions team on a permanent basis. I have always been aware of the excellent reputation held by the Pensions team (and Wrigleys generally) for providing quality advice to clients in a friendly, straightforward manner. I am delighted to be part of such an organisation."

Kate Buckham, Joint Head of the Pensions team in the Leeds Office said: "We are really pleased to welcome Helen to the team and look forward to introducing her further to our clients whom I am confident will appreciate her clear and sensible approach. Helen brings with her a wealth of experience and is a great addition to our team of expert pensions lawyers."

Helen is a full member of the Association of Pensions Lawyers and a member of the Pension Ombudsman's Legal Forum.

Helen's permanent position with the Wrigleys Pensions team further strengthens the Wrigleys pensions offering with the recent return of senior lawyer Victoria Acomb from maternity leave.