One Essex Court is committed to furthering the wellbeing of its members and staff.
Chambers operates a Wellbeing Committee to monitor and take steps to improve the wellbeing and working experience of barristers and staff. It holds a certificate from the Bar Council in recognition of its commitment to wellbeing.
Our Wellbeing Policy establishes a framework for working practices and services to support the wellbeing of barristers and staff, including through flexible working, regular work reviews and education and support programmes. The promotion of the Wellbeing of barristers and staff is built into Chambers’ life, informing the approach taken to training (including pupillage), career development and mentoring at all levels.
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Wellbeing Committee
The Wellbeing Committee comprises senior and junior counsel along with the Senior Clerk and another representative of the clerking team. The Committee meets on a monthly basis to monitor existing initiatives and consider new measures to improve the wellbeing and working experience of barristers and staff.
The Committee focuses on measures aimed at promoting a healthy work-life balance, encouraging socialisation within Chambers and supporting members in relation to challenges that they may face in their working lives. Recent initiatives include:
- sporting events (e.g. cricket social);
- surveying Members to identify room for improvement in the working environment;
- social events (e.g. monthly drinks, junior barristers’ curry evening, summer picnic, etc);
- stress-management and mental health awareness training.
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Wellbeing Certificate of Recognition
One Essex Court holds a Certificate of Recognition from the Bar Council for its commitment to wellbeing in the barristers’ profession.
The Bar Council specifically noted the use of a pupil mentoring guide to help pupils navigate the transition into Chambers life and full practice.