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Talk to Spot

  • Spot enables confidential and anonymous reporting of inappropriate behaviour at the Bar. A report can support a complaint - should you wish.

  • It can be used if something happens to you or you witness an incident.

Sanctions Guidance

  • Following extensive consultation with the Bar and wider public, the Bar Tribunals and Adjudication Service (BTAS) has issued new Sanctions Guidance for professional misconduct.

  • Misconduct of a sexual nature (including sexual harassment and assault), as well as bullying, will now attract a minimum 12-month suspension.

  • The guidance came into effect on 1 January 2022.

Guidance on Social Media and conduct in non-professional life

  • The BSB published two sets of Guidance in September 2023. During consultation for the Social Media guidance, we asked the BSB to acknowledge the misogynistic abuse that speaking out on male violence, gender equality and advancing women’s rights, often sparks.

  • Whilst some parts of the Guidance are encouraging, it does not mention misogyny or women, and does not go far enough in combating the well evidenced issue of gendered bullying on social media. We find these omissions to be a missed opportunity.