Policies
Our Commitment
Rose Court Chambers is committed to maintaining a working environment in which all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.
This applies to:
Members of Chambers
Pupils and mini pupils
Employees and staff
Clients and members of the public
We do not tolerate harassment or bullying in any form and will take appropriate action wherever it occurs.
Scope of This Policy
This policy applies to:
All Chambers premises
Any location where Chambers business is conducted
All work related activities
Social or professional events connected to Chambers
All individuals associated with Chambers are required to read and comply with this policy.
What Is Harassment
Harassment is any unwanted behaviour that undermines dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, or offensive environment.
This includes behaviour in person, in writing, or through digital communication.
Harassment is judged based on the experience of the recipient. Behaviour that may seem acceptable to one person may still be unacceptable if it causes offence or distress to another.
Examples of Harassment
Harassment may include, but is not limited to:
Physical or sexual misconduct
Unwanted physical contact
Offensive remarks, jokes, or ridicule
Bullying or intimidation
Exclusion or isolation
Aggressive or inappropriate communications
Threats, whether explicit or implied
Unreasonable or persistent negative behaviour
Any such conduct may result in disciplinary action.
Communication of This Policy
This policy is available on the Chambers website.
Where appropriate, guidance or briefings may be provided to ensure all individuals understand:
Expected standards of behaviour
How to raise concerns
What support is available
Raising Concerns
Informal Resolution
Where appropriate, individuals may choose to raise concerns directly with the person involved.
If this is not suitable, concerns can be raised informally with the Standing Committee. Support and guidance will be provided, and steps taken to resolve the matter quickly and, where possible, confidentially.
If informal resolution is not achieved within a reasonable timeframe, the formal process should be followed.
Formal Complaints
A formal complaint can be made in writing to a member of the Standing Committee.
An investigation will begin within one week
Investigations will normally be completed within 14 days
All parties will be informed of the process and given the opportunity to respond
Investigations will be conducted fairly and in line with principles of natural justice. Individuals may be accompanied at any hearing if they wish.
Possible Outcomes
Where a complaint is upheld, actions may include:
Formal apology
Counselling or support measures
Written warning
Changes to work arrangements
Suspension or removal from Chambers
Referral to relevant regulatory bodies
Confidentiality
All complaints will be handled with sensitivity and confidentiality.
Information will only be shared where necessary to investigate and resolve the matter. Records of complaints and outcomes will be securely maintained.
Confidentiality following resolution will remain with the complainant.
Protection Against Victimisation
Chambers will not tolerate any form of retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith.
Victimisation of:
Complainants
Witnesses
Anyone involved in an investigation
will be treated as a disciplinary matter.
Raising a genuine complaint will not negatively affect career progression, tenancy, or opportunities within Chambers.
Pupils and Probationary Tenants
Pupillage is a professional training period and must be conducted within clear professional boundaries.
Any personal relationship between a Member of Chambers or staff and a pupil or probationary tenant is inappropriate and represents a breach of trust.
Such relationships must be reported immediately, and the individual concerned must not be involved in any decisions affecting that pupil.
External Support
Independent support is available through the Bar Council.
Equality and Diversity Advisory Service
Confidential helpline: 0207 611 1310
No individual should be discouraged from seeking external advice or making a complaint to an external body.
Our Responsibility
All individuals associated with Chambers share responsibility for maintaining a respectful and professional environment.
We are committed to ensuring that all concerns are taken seriously and addressed fairly.