As Stress Awareness Month unfolds this April, it’s imperative to shed light on the pressing issues surrounding mental and physical wellbeing within the family law system, particularly among solicitors and barristers. Recent statistics from the Bar Council’s Wellbeing at the Bar Report 2024 provide valuable insights into the current landscape and highlight areas for improvement.
The report, compiled by Dr. Darren Van Laar at Portsmouth University based on data from 2023, reveals both progress and persistent challenges within the legal profession:
Positive Trends
- Overall, barristers reported higher levels of work satisfaction and wellbeing in 2023 compared to 2021, particularly in terms of psychological wellbeing, workload management, and the presence of a supportive work environment.
- Encouragingly, 73% of respondents agreed they had supportive colleagues and/or a supportive work environment, marking a 6% increase compared to 2021.
- Similarly, 61% of respondents expressed satisfaction with their job, aligning with the percentage reported in 2021.
Areas of Concern
- Despite these improvements, significant challenges persist. A notable finding is that 60% of respondents reported experiencing a good mood, while 34.9% indicated feeling down or in low spirits. Among the latter group, 23.7% reported low psychological wellbeing.
- Workload management remains a prominent issue, with only 49% of respondents reporting effective management of their workloads. Alarmingly, a third (31.4%) indicated they weren’t coping.
- The report highlights disparities in wellbeing among different demographics within the legal profession. Women, barristers from ethnic minority backgrounds, and those who are younger and more junior reported lower overall wellbeing.
- Of particular concern is the significantly lower overall wellbeing reported by barristers working in family law, second only to those in criminal law. In contrast, barristers in commercial law reported the highest average overall wellbeing.
Chair of the Bar Council, Sam Townend KC, acknowledged the improvements in wellbeing but emphasised the need for continued focus on addressing persistent challenges. He highlighted the disparities in wellbeing among different demographic groups and practice areas, signalling areas for targeted intervention and support.
At Unit Chambers, we recognise the importance of prioritising mental and physical wellbeing within the legal profession, especially in the challenging arena of family law. Our commitment to fostering a supportive environment extends beyond rhetoric to tangible actions:
- We offer tailored support mechanisms for barristers experiencing stress or struggling with workload management, ensuring they have access to resources and guidance to navigate these challenges effectively.
- Our Support Team provides a supportive space for open dialogue and discussion, encouraging barristers to voice their concerns and seek assistance when needed.
- We prioritise mentorship and professional development opportunities to empower barristers at all career stages, equipping them with the skills and resilience to thrive in their practice.
- We advocate for a culture of inclusivity and support, recognising the unique challenges faced by individuals from diverse backgrounds and striving to create an environment where all feel valued and supported.
As we continue to navigate the complexities of the legal profession, let us not only raise awareness of the challenges but also take decisive action to address them. By fostering a culture of wellbeing and support, we can create a more resilient and thriving legal community, better equipped to meet the needs of those we serve.
In conclusion, the findings of the Wellbeing at the Bar Report underscore the urgency of prioritising mental and physical wellbeing within the family law system. At Unit Chambers, we remain committed to leading by example and championing positive change within the legal profession. Together, let us work towards a future where wellbeing is not just a priority but a fundamental right for all.