#SupportingSolicitors campaign launched to end mental health stigma

A joint campaign launched by The Law Society, the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), LawCare and other solicitor charities aims to promote the help available to solicitors dealing with personal challenges. #SupportingSolicitors was announced this week at the start of Mental Health Awareness Week (13 – 19 May) to challenge the stigma of mental health in the legal profession.

“It is important for all solicitors to know that no matter what challenges they may encounter during their legal career, they are able to obtain support from someone who understands their unique set of circumstances,” said solicitor Kayleigh Leonie, who is author of Supporting resilience and wellbeing in the workplace, and represents the Junior Lawyers Division on its council.

“Whether it is a professional/work-related issue or a personal matter, it is very reassuring to know that there are organisations available to provide solicitors with guidance and support,” She continued.

In a linked initiative, LawCare is piloting a new webchat service that will be available on the website from 1 July.  Chief executive Elizbeth Rimmer said: “More and more people in the legal community are reaching out to us for support every year so it is vital we expand our support service.

“We also know that many young people are more likely to seek help online than pick up the phone. Our webchat service will allow anyone working in the legal profession to contact one of our trained team members online for emotional support on any issue that is troubling them.”

The Law Society’s ‘Help for solicitors’ page directs solicitors to organisations that can help with a wide range of issues.