In 1996 Helen set up Grants Solicitors, a specialist firm focused on dealing with the problems of family breakdown. The practice has acted for over 14,000 clients since the outset and currently employs around 15 people. Perhaps uniquely the firm operates free weekly outreach and advice services in multiple locations across South London, Surrey and West Kent through its own dedicated unit called DVLAAN (Domestic Violence Legal Advice and Assistance Network www.dvlaan.com) which deals with the multiple issues relating to Domestic Violence.  Children form a significant proportion of the work too, which over the years has given Helen a deep understanding of the many problems relating to the health, well-being and behaviour of children within their families and as members of the community generally. The practice is now managed by Helen's husband Simon. 

Helen was a non-executive director of the Croydon NHS Primary Care Trust from January 2005 until retiring in March 2007 to concentrate on becoming an MP. Her role at the Trust involved supervising and overseeing the delivery of integrated healthcare for the community, holding to account the professionally lead executive and helping to ensure best use of financial resources to maximise benefits for patients.

• Articles of Clerkship - Cartmell, Mawson & Main, Carlisle
• Clinical Negligence Solicitor, Hempsons Solicitors, London.
• Equity Partner, Fayers & Co. Solicitors, South Wimbledon.
• Senior Partner, Grants Solicitors LLP, Croydon.
• MP Maidstone & The Weald