Take a closer look at our recent video, featuring insights from Bar leaders about challenges, and avenues of support for Bar members and their professional peers.
The Bar Council, and leaders across the Bar emphasise the significance of prioritising wellbeing.
The film features Nick Vineall KC (Chair of the Bar Council), Michelle Heeley KC (Leader of the Midland Circuit), Jo Martin KC (Leader of the Western Circuit), Kirsty Brimelow KC (Chair of the Criminal Bar Association), Gaynor Wood (Chair of BACFI), Michael Harwood (Chair of the Young Barristers’ Committee), Elaine Banton (Co-Chair of the Bar Council Equality, Diversity and Social Mobility Committee), David Joseph KC (Chair of the Commercial Bar Association), Leon Kazakos KC (Leader of the South Eastern Circuit), Jason Pitter KC (Leader of the North Eastern Circuit), and Sam Townend KC (Vice Chair of the Bar Council).
Individual leaders contribute their personal insights into Wellbeing at the Bar:
“We need to prioritise wellbeing at the Bar because if we don’t we’re going to continue to see the haemorrhaging of talent we are already experiencing.” Michelle Heeley KC, Leader of the Midland Circuit.
“What I would say to members of the Young Bar who are struggling with their wellbeing is that firstly and foremostly, you are not alone.” Michael Harwood, Chair of the Young Barristers’ Committee.
“I would advise every barrister to treat themselves with the same respect they treat those that are closest and nearest and dearest to them.” David Joseph KC, Chair of the Commercial Bar Association.
“None of us should be too proud to seek help from our friends and colleagues, or professional help if we need it.” Leon Kazakos KC, Leader of the South Eastern Circuit.
The video signposts to wellbeing support for barristers and the legal community:
Wellbeing at the Bar – a dedicated website for the Bar including a range of support services and resources on mental health and wellbeing.
Assistance programme – self-employed barristers can call the assistance programme on 0800 169 2040 for 24-hour telephone support and free counselling.
LawCare – free, confidential, emotional support via the mental wellbeing charity for the legal community.
The new film is supported by: the Administrative Law Bar Association, the Bar Association for Commerce, Finance and Industry, the Bar Council, the Bar European Group, the Commercial Bar Association, the Council of the Inns of Court, the Court of Protection Bar Association, the Criminal Bar Association, the Employment Law Bar Association, the Family Law Bar Association, the Honourable Society of Gray’s Inn, the Honourable Society of Inner Temple, the Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn, the Honourable Society of Middle Temple, the Institute of Barristers’ Clerks, the Intellectual Property Bar Association, the Legal Practice Management Association, the Midland Circuit, the Personal Injury Bar Association, the Planning and Environment Bar Association, the South Eastern Circuit, the Western Circuit and the Young Barristers’ Committee.