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Help for barristers

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.

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Help for clerks and staff

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.

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Help for students and pupils

These resources have been designed specifically for those who have completed their BPTC and for pupils up to tenancy.

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Resources

Our vision

Find out what Wellbeing at the Bar aims to achieve.

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Policy & practice

Guidance on how to introduce wellbeing policies and initiatives and on tackling a wellbeing issue in chambers.

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Media pack

Logos and banners to help you to promote wellbeing.

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Case studies

Examples of successful wellbeing initiatives adopted by chambers, Specialist Bar Associations and the Inns of Court.

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Support

Support for barristers

Who to talk to, how to get help in coping with the pressures and demands of life at the Bar.

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Support for clerks and staff

Who to talk to and how to get help, resources are for clerks and staff themselves.

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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.

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Assistance programme

The confidential 24/7 helpline with access to counselling for barristers, pupils, clerks and chambers’ staff.

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Covid 19 support and resources

At a recent Bar Council wellbeing event (24 February 2021), our Vice Chair Rebecca Dix shared some tips on how to maintain a healthy way of life and work space.

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For confidential help you can call

Assistance programme; on  0800 169 2040 (24/7)

Domestic abuse helpline  on 0808 2000 247 (24/7)

Samaritans on 116 123 (24/7)

Mental health

“Even those who take pride in their resilience will have felt vulnerable for themselves or others at this time…”

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Work at the Bar

Work at the bar has become extremely challenging during the pandemic. Rules around attending court keep changing. At times you may fear that your health and safety and that of your family will be put at risk in order to keep the justice system on its feet. You may be under pressure to deliver to deadlines whilst managing the challenges of the pandemic or working from home.

Tips for managing this:

  • Keep up to date with court/Covid 19 information here
  • Manage your workload if it gets too much
  • Know what do if you need to take a break from work; guidance here
  • Call the Bar Council ethics line for work related ethical queries: 020 7611 1307 (09:15-17:15 Monday-Friday)

Need to report a Covid-19 related issue?

Talk to spot 

For barristers to report corona-virus-specific concerns – for example around safety when attending court, the impact of Covid/Extended Operating Hours etc.

Or email:

CWG@barcouncil.org.uk

 

Finance

Be proactive and seek help in managing your finances. Click here for further information or  download the support pack.

If you are having cash flow issues you can contact hardship funds such as the Barristers Benevolent Association ( all practicing barristers) or the Marshall Trust (for pupils and junior members of Inner Temple).

 

 

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.


Get in touch Policy & practice

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.

A simple expression that sums up wellbeing is ‘travelling well’

2 in 3 barristers feel that showing signs of stress equals weakness