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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.
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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.
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Who to talk to and how to get help for those who have completed their BPTC and for pupils up to tenancy.
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This case study may be useful if you are looking for examples of developing a wellbeing policy, increasing awareness of wellbeing, developing resilience training schemes and/or promoting wellbeing initiatives.
What was the business (other case) for action?
At TGC we take the wellbeing of members and staff seriously. This is because, as self-employed practitioners, Chambers knows all too well that unplanned absence (for example, due to mental and/or physical illness) can result in personal financial difficulty – which, in turn, only serves to generate further stress.
Over the years, Chambers have come to realise that it is important to be proactive. As such, our aim is to provide a happy, well-supported working environment for all, in order to prevent the onset of issues which may adversely affect individuals’ health and their working practice, and to offer individual support and understanding when issues do arise.
TGC sees a focus on wellbeing as an opportunity to enable its members and staff to thrive in their careers enhancing Chambers’ reputation for excellence and for staff as a good employer.
What did the Chambers do?
TGC sees a focus on wellbeing as an opportunity to enable its members and staff to thrive in their careers enhancing Chambers’ reputation for excellence and for staff as a good employer.
Opening up dialogue As a first step, Chambers opened up a dialogue in chambers about wellbeing issues. TGC began this process over two years ago, initially through e-mail and one to one discussion, and then through an open “town hall” meeting.
Establishing a Wellbeing Committee. TGC then established a Wellbeing Sub-Committee, reporting to the Equality, Diversity and Wellbeing Committee, made up of members of Chambers of varying seniority and an experienced clerk.
Mental Health Training. Three members of the Wellbeing Committee have now attended Mental Health Training for the Bar
Ways of Working and related policies: TGC has recently instituted a rent review – to ensure that its rent structure takes appropriate account of the wellbeing of members and achieves our equality and diversity commitments.
TGC has created a shared database with its wellbeing policy (currently being finalised); Wellness for Law notes and other helpful notes/publications; fee collection guidance notes; and a guide to members of chambers with points on assisting clerks with cohesive working.
Chambers is also now developing best ways of working guidance, through discussion between clerks and barristers, to ensure ways of working and diary management allows members to manage their diary as needed but also minimises stress for clerks enhancing wellbeing on both sides
Introduction of Mentoring
“TGC have taken a well-considered approach to wellbeing. We were pleased to see a focus on practice management and ways of working rather than a rush to introduce a range eye-catching initiative. Their clear focus on building solid foundations with respect to policy, governance and training are all critical in ensuring impact on this agenda.”
Wellbeing at the Bar Working Group
What were the results?
The introduction of regular practice reviews has provided members of Chambers with the opportunity to address head-on those issues which might otherwise have caused them stress and anxiety: for example, diary management, billings and receipts, upcoming personal matters which need to be accommodated etc.
As a result, members feel increasingly supported by the clerking team. It has also highlighted how members of Chambers can assist the clerking team with cohesive working and thereby safeguard/improve the clerks’ wellbeing as well. Above all, TGC has raised awareness and started a conversation across Chambers which we hope will continue from strength to strength.
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The information and resource packs on this website are designed to help you and your colleagues to work as a community for better wellbeing and professional resilience. If you want to provide feedback on these resources, or to get involved in promoting wellbeing please get in touch.
It can be difficult to make a living from law and it can be pressurised and demanding. Competition and an adversarial approach to everything can make collegiate relationships difficult. This website aims to provide you with the knowledge to manage these stressors, make emotionally informed, wise professional decisions and thrive in your chosen profession.
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