As has been said on countless occasions, these are unprecedented times. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected everyone in so many ways. One of those ways is through loved ones passing away, from the virus or other causes, coupled with the lack of opportunity to say goodbye in the way we’d hoped. Working alongside colleagues who […]
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 during times of Corona: Nick Peacock
Crazy times, huh? I used to work from home a few years back but I’m out of the habit. My practice is half-civil and half-professional disciplinary. The civil paperwork can carry on, but I’ve had to go almost completely paperless, and far more quickly than I’d intended; conferences can be done by phone or – […]
Message from the Chair of Wellbeing at the Bar
I have thought a lot about what to say in this message, how to even begin to address the enormity of what has been happening. At the time of writing, two of my dear friends have lost their mothers. Neither of them was able to be there at the end. In the context of […]
Suicide Prevention: what can I do?
Revised 6th May 2020 This blog talks about suicide. If you are affected by any of the material discussed, please use the contacts in the contacts page to discuss how you are feeling or contact a person you feel comfortable talking to. The Samaritans are always open and are always waiting for your call. You […]
A barrister’s guide to wellbeing at Christmas
We have looked more than ever this year at barristers’ well-being – how we can lead a healthy professional lifestyle. As we come to the end of the year, let’s give a thought as to how despite our often hectic days we can reduce the stress of those around us. …so here are the Barrister’s […]
Believe in Dog?
We can very easily find ourselves living in a cage. Literally if our lifestyle traps us for hours inside or metaphorically if we contain our minds, ambitions, sense of worth. Other people can contain us in such ways too, but they can also set us free. I frequently drove past an animal shelter when visiting my […]
How Mindfulness Can Help You Manage Conflict in the Workplace
Conflict in the workplace is on the rise and the Bar is no exception. With diaries to manage, difficult colleagues to navigate and competition as fierce as ever, stress levels within the profession remains high. So what can be done to de-escalate conflict and reduce stress? An increasing number of chambers are looking to mindfulness […]
Bar students and pupils – are they snowflakes?
Let’s just take a minute to think about Greta Thunberg. She is the 16-year-old Swede who posted a picture of herself sitting outside Sweden’s parliament building, with a handmade cardboard sign which read, “Skolstrejk för klimatet”. As a result of her dogged determination, there was a climate strike of global proportions on Friday 20th September. […]