The Bar Council initiated our wellbeing work fully aware that we were going to be in it for the long haul. We recognised we had a mountain to climb in challenging the stigma too often associated with mental health, particularly at the Bar. That said, we’ve been surprised at how receptive barristers (and their clerks) […]
I need help
Barristers inherently face very specific challenges on a daily basis. If you need some help click on support to find contact details and advice on seeking support.
The professional lives of clerks and chambers’ staff include many potential stressors. If you don’t know how to broach an issue, want advice on your options.
These resources have been designed specifically for those who have completed their BPTC and for pupils up to tenancy.
Resources
Guidance on how to introduce wellbeing policies and initiatives and on tackling a wellbeing issue in chambers.
Examples of successful wellbeing initiatives adopted by chambers, Specialist Bar Associations and the Inns of Court.
Support
Who to talk to, how to get help in coping with the pressures and demands of life at the Bar.
Who to talk to and how to get help, resources are for clerks and staff themselves.
Support for students and pupils
Who to talk to and how to get help for those who have completed their BPTC and for pupils up to tenancy.
The confidential 24/7 helpline with access to counselling for barristers, pupils, clerks and chambers’ staff.
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News / Events
Lo♥︎ing legal life: how senior lawyers can help reduce stress in colleagues
This week, systemic coach Zita Tulyahikayho and barrister James Pereira KC discuss how to read the signs of potential stress in ourselves and others. When we genuinely value something, we look after it. Most people find looking after high value items fairly straightforward. Take a car. Most people drive with reasonable care to avoid damaging […]
Keeping in good working order
Nick Hill, Chairman of the Institute of Barristers’ Clerks (IBC) explains how the clerking community are working with the Bar to help drive the wellbeing initiative At the Bar Conference in October the Wellbeing at the Bar website was launched, providing information, advice and support for those working at or with the Bar. This was so much […]
Chambers’ organisational structures and working practices can make wellbeing issues harder to spot
Joanna Chatterton (pictured below) of Fox Williams LLP explains how Chambers’ organisational structures can mask wellbeing issues. The launch of the invaluable wellbeingatthebar.org.uk portal is a significant step towards removing the stigma associated with mental health at the Bar and towards encouraging chambers, their members and staff to tackle this challenging issue. The fact that […]
Why the Bar needs a wellbeing initiative
Helen Randall (pictured below) from the Wales & Chester Circuit explains why the Wellbeing at the Bar initiative is so essential and timely. Even in my few short years at the bar I have noticed a change in the robing rooms. What used to be good-humoured, self-deprecating jokes about workloads and pay cheques have become […]