The number of solicitors seeking help for overlapping emotional, financial and professional challenges has soared over the past three years, according to one of the profession’s main support services. In its latest report, the Solicitors’ Charity says demand for support has tripled since 2023.
The number of referrals for structured career support has risen from seven in 2022 to 40 in 2025. Meanwhile, last year, 341 practising or non-practising solicitors contacted mental health charity LawCare, which is supported by the Solicitors’ Charity.
‘Solicitors across England and Wales are facing increasingly complex pressures, with many experiencing challenges that affect their wellbeing, confidence and ability to cope,’ says the charity’s Big report 2025-2026. It notes that financial pressure, health challenges, career uncertainty and emotional strain are often intertwined.
Nick Gallagher, the charity’s chief executive, said: ‘What we are seeing across the profession is not just increased demand, but more complex need. Challenges rarely exist in isolation, and that has implications for how we respond as a profession.
‘Local law societies play a vital role in awareness-raising of our support, helping us reach people earlier and ensuring no one feels they have to face these challenges alone,’ he added.
The report also highlights the impact of timely support. More than 80% of those supported said they felt more positive and able to cope, both now and in the future.
The charity, founded in 1858, receives most of its funding from unclaimed client account balances.
1 Reader's comment