Trainee stress programme at Clifford Chance may be extended firm-wide

Magic Circle firm Clifford Chance is considering rolling out its trainee stress-reducing programme to staff throughout the firm.

All trainee solicitors undergo the scheme during their Legal Practice Course and two-week induction at the firm. Run in partnership with The Positive Group, trainees are monitored on criteria relating to engagement and motivation. The Performance Optimisation Programme (POP) includes teaching trainees techniques to help cope with stressful situations and strategies for thinking and behaviour.

Laura Yeates, graduate recruitment and development manager at Clifford Chance, explained the benefits brought about by POP so far: "Over the first 12 months of introducing POP, we have seen a decrease in absence levels and are able to spot individuals who may require occupational health support at an earlier stage. We continue to develop and refine POP toward our main goal of normalising mental health issues and building psychological resilience. We are also considering ways to tailor components of the programme for other employee groups within the firm."