Baroness Harman's Report

Dear members,

As you will have seen, the Bar Council has published Baroness Harman’s report on the independent review of bullying, harassment and sexual harassment at the Bar.

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The Bar Council press release provides a useful overview of the report and includes quotes from Barbara Mills KC and Baroness Harman. 

Help spread the word

Please consider if you wish to sign up to the webinar with Barbara and Harriet taking place at 6pm on Wednesday 17 September. Questions can be submitted in advance via [email protected].   PIBA will be represented by Helen Bell. 

An outline of the report:

• The independent review was commissioned by the Bar Council following its report in 2023 detailing experiences of bullying and harassment reported through Barristers’ Working Lives and Talk to Spot
• Baroness Harman’s report makes 36 detailed recommendations to tackle what she describes as a culture of “collusive bystanding” and “impunity”
• The review received over 170 written submissions from individuals and organisations, and Baroness Harman visited every circuit to meet barristers and gather information
• The report makes uncomfortable reading, but the Bar Council considers that the impact of bullying and harassment on individuals is huge and decisive action is needed
• The Bar Council is considering the recommendations carefully and will develop a plan for change

We would like to remind you of sources of support, including the following options:

• Talk to Spot – use Talk to Spot to anonymously and confidentially raise concerns about inappropriate and abusive behaviour or seek support to make a report to the BSB, police or other appropriate body
• Speak to the Bar Council team – email the equality and diversity team in confidence for support and advice
• Call the Assistance Programme – available to everyone working in and around the Bar. The programme is run by Health Assured and provides fully funded confidential support. Call 0800 169 2040. Visit the Wellbeing at the Bar website

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