I wasn’t at breaking point but I think I realised that I didn’t want to get to that point before doing something about it… In 2014, after a succession of many years working flat out at the Bar and, before that, as a solicitor, and, before that, doing two degrees at three different universities […]
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
Wellbeing at the Bar Blog: Theo Huckle KC
In the bleak midwinter of Covid… but the Chair is looking forward to Spring and beyond! When I last drafted a blog for our website, it was October 2018 and I was in South Africa, waxing somewhat lyrical about the Wellbeing benefits of watching giraffes feeding in the Kruger National Park. I am pleased to […]
The Dungaree Equilibrium
Don’t get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life – Dolly Parton This blog post promotes ‘balance’ and recounts how COVID-19 and a humble pair of dungarees helped in my efforts to achieve it. For many at the Bar, finding balance between making a living and living can be […]
The healing power of nature
Lockdown 2020 – what a year. Who would have thought this time last year we would all be crossing our fingers to be able to enjoy a reasonable Christmas? As I look back on the year and reflect, I do believe that despite everything there have been some positive things that have happened. My main […]
Lessons from Houdini
31 October marked the 94th anniversary of Harry Houdini’s death. Days before his death, he had a broken ankle, was running a fever and was suffering from acute appendicitis. Despite a doctor strongly advising that surgery was urgently required, he ignored the advice and performed what would turn out to be his last performance. He […]
Covid restrictions and remote working: how has it impacted clerks’ rooms?
The clerks’ room is often called the ‘engine room’ and ‘heart’ of chambers; its bustling atmosphere, a hive of activity and seemingly never a quiet moment. Phones ringing and the discussions that ensue, clerks calling across the room to one another and barristers talking to their team – downloading the most recent outcome of a […]
“You are not a failure but a leader. By speaking up you will help the next person speak.”
When I joined the Wellbeing at the Bar [‘WATB’] committee in 2018, firstly I was very excited to be involved but shamefully my first query, was ‘Wellbeing? Is that for me or the client?’. Never did it occur to me that in fact yes, mental health is important to me too and not just my […]
My Life during Lockdown
Coronavirus has been with us since the beginning of the year. However, I personally did not feel the impact until 16 March 2020 when I was at Court. As 10am approached, the waiting areas filled up and social distancing was impossible. I started to feel anxious. A colleague confessed to “feeling paranoid”. My lay client […]