Asha Groves and Sophie Smith-Holland were 2 of the few barristers on circuit who attended the Balint Group pilot run by the Bar Council.
A Balint Group is a facilitated peer discussion group used to facilitate reflective practice and to promote wellbeing. The idea is to create a safe space to share challenging issues with others who understand the pressures of working in this profession. The format has been used successfully in the NHS for a number of years but has only recently been considered for the legal profession.
Following completion of the 6 month pilot, Asha and Sophie decided to set up a monthly Balint group for the Family Practice Group. So far the sessions have been well received and continue to be part of chambers’ commitment to promoting wellbeing.
Asha and Sophie are happy to share their experience of Balint groups with others in the legal profession and those interested are welcome to get in touch via their clerks.