Breaking the Silence: Why barristers need wellbeing support
The case for wellbeing in the legal profession
The legal profession has long been associated with intensity, high stakes and relentless pressure—none more so than in family law. Yet, while barristers are required to have professional indemnity insurance and financial support structures in place, mental health and wellbeing support remains optional rather than essential. This needs to change.
The Bar Chair’s call for change
The new Chair of the Bar Council, Barbara Mills KC, recently emphasised the importance of wellbeing, coaching and supervision for barristers. She stated that wellbeing should be seen as non-negotiable, just like having an accountant or insurance.
“What I would like to see in the profession is wellbeing losing its stigma as a sign of weakness and elevated to the same non-negotiable level as having an accountant or having insurance.” – Barbara Mills KC
The impact of Family Law work on mental health
Family law barristers frequently deal with emotionally charged cases, including:
Domestic abuse proceedings
High-conflict divorces
Child protection cases
Child arrangement disputes
These cases can lead to vicarious trauma, where barristers absorb the emotional distress of their clients. Chronic exposure to these cases without adequate support can lead to burnout, anxiety and depression.
The role of Wellbeing Initiatives & Support Systems
Organisations like LawCare and the Wellbeing at the Bar Initiative offer vital resources, including:
Confidential support helplines
Peer mentoring schemes
Wellbeing training and coaching
Practical tools for chambers to create a supportive environment
Moving towards a culture of support
To truly embed wellbeing in the profession, chambers and regulatory bodies should:
Integrate wellbeing training into CPD requirements
Encourage regular coaching and supervision
Nurture a culture where seeking support is encouraged, not stigmatised
By normalising mental health support, the Bar can create an environment where barristers thrive professionally without sacrificing their wellbeing.
Unit Chambers: A recognised chambers for wellbeing
At Unit Chambers, we’re not just a barristers chambers; we’re a supportive community that values wellbeing, mental health and work-life balance. Our commitment to these crucial aspects isn’t just a policy; it’s the core of our mission to create an inclusive and thriving environment for everyone.
We believe that a thriving legal practice begins with a supportive and resilient working environment. We are proud to have been recently certified by the Bar Council for our Wellbeing at the Bar initiatives—a testament to our ongoing dedication to nurturing mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing across our chambers.
Central to these efforts are our Wellbeing Officers, Amjad Kadhim, a certified Mental Health First Aider, and Daniela Mizzen who both play an instrumental role in supporting our members. They lead initiatives such as our regular team socials and bi-monthly hikes as well as Wellbeing Wednesday remote programmes. Their compassionate approach ensures every member of Unit Chambers feels heard, valued and supported, both professionally and personally.
Recognition from the Bar Council further inspires us to continue embedding wellbeing into every aspect of our culture and operations. From leadership involvement to innovative programmes, we’re committed to maintaining a chambers environment where everyone can thrive.
Want to learn more about joining chambers that truly values your wellbeing? Reach out to us today.