A CLECKHEATON-based human resources and employment law firm is marking 15 years in business after launching with what its chairman called “nothing more than a computer, a phone and a dream.”

Howarths People and Safety Management was founded in 2003 by husband and wife team Andy and Helen Howarth to provide HR, employment law and health and safety support to small and medium-sized enterprises across Yorkshire.

The firm now works with over 500 clients across the UK, including national high street footwear retailer, Moda in Pelle, and home of Huddersfield Town Football Club, the John Smith’s Stadium.

Chairman, Andy Howarth, said: “Helen and I started the company by ourselves back in 2003 with nothing more than a computer, a phone, and a dream to start our own business.

“To be marking our fifteenth year in business following what has been one of our most successful financial years to date is a fantastic achievement for the family and everyone involved in making the Howarths what it is today.”

Gross profits at the firm have increased by more than 400 per cent over the last five years, and the team has accrued an average of 65 new clients each year for the same period.

Managing director, Gavin Howarth, added: “A major contributor to our growth has been getting the right people in the right places within the business. We are a service business built upon the quality and dedication of our team, and we've worked hard to recruit qualified people, and - once they’re with us - create an environment in which they can thrive.

“We start from the premise that we want people who join us to build career with us and will provide career opportunities and training for anyone who wants to progress. We’re also as flexible as possible with our team, as we know from experience that if we can be accommodating of their needs outside of work, it creates harmony, trust and – ultimately – success.”

In August 2017, the firm launched a dedicated HR and investigations division, and in June last year set up The Howarth Foundation, and independent charity established to support the homeless and recently homeless back into employment.

Gavin added: “I am extremely proud of our achievements both as a family and a business over the last 15 years. We have plenty of further growth plans for the 12 months ahead, including expanding our employment law and health and safety teams to keep pace with client demand.”