Helping increase understanding, recognise challenges and support prevention and treatment.

In 2014/5 all four Inns of Court funded research with the Bar Council to ‘take the temperature’ of the profession with regards to their subjective wellbeing and issues surrounding mental health.

Key findings were:

• 1 in 3 find it difficult to control/stop worrying
• 2 in 3 feel showing signs of stress equals weakness
• 1 in 6 feeling in low spirits most of the time
• 59% demonstrate unhealthy levels of perfectionism
• Psychological wellbeing within the profession is rarely spoken about

The research led to the launch of the Wellbeing at the Bar initiative, which began the serious conversation to address culture, stigma and change within the Bar. The initiative is directed by a Working Group including representatives of the Inns, Circuits and SBAs. Master Rachel Spearing represents the Inner Temple on the Working Group, along with and Jennie Collis Price, Head of the Sub-Treasurer’s Office.

The Wellbeing at the Bar initiative aims to:

• Improve barristers' wellbeing and resilience
• Improve chambers' management practices and understanding of Wellbeing and mental health
• Improve support available to those in crisis

A vital element of the Wellbeing at the Bar initiative is the Assistance Programme, a free confidential telephone support and counselling service, kindly funded by Bar Mutual Indemnity Fund (BMIF), offering help and advice to the entire self-employed Bar on a variety of issues.