Support for trainees
If you have administrative support or process questions, such as having issues accessing your record, selecting your supervisor or finding the right form please email legaleduc@lawscot.org.uk.
We encourage any trainee who is struggling in their traineeship to discuss this with their training manager. However, we recognise that this is not always possible and, in some instances, further support is wanted or needed.
Regardless of whether you feel able to raise an issue with your training manager, you can contact us to arrange a time to discuss any training issue that you might have. Should you need help in dealing with issues or difficulties affecting your traineeship, an experienced member of staff will be able to offer you guidance, advice and assistance.
We aim to assist you whether you are seeking formal intervention or, as is often the case, simply looking to discuss the issue without formal action being taken. You will be speaking with us on a confidential basis.
We are also happy to speak with you anonymously. We have helped many trainees who have not wished to identify themselves or their employer. If you would like to remain anonymous, we advise that you create a temporary email address to contact us.
The Law Society of Scotland’s Admissions Sub-Committee has the power to intervene in training contracts if, after investigation, it is thought necessary. However, we do not intervene directly without your consent, and cannot intervene if not made aware of the name of the individual(s), firm or organisation involved. Please bear this in mind when deciding whether or not to contact us anonymously.
To arrange a time to speak with us, email legaleduc@lawscot.org.uk or call us on 0131 226 7411 to request this.
Additional Support
Below is some information on additional support available to trainees. Regardless of whether or not you make use of these resources and services, we would always encourage any trainee who is struggling in their traineeship to speak with us directly.
The Law Society of Scotland has a dedicated LawScot Wellbeing area of its website, which can be used by anyone in the profession. We work in collaboration with NHS Scotland, LawCare, SeeMe, SAMH and other mental health charities to:
- equip our members with information and signposting to help manage emotional wellbeing;
- support our members and others employed in the Scottish legal sector who may be experiencing difficulties to access support services and advice;
- support colleagues and people managers help those in difficulty or crisis;
- guide members who are concerned about their client’s emotional wellbeing; and
- challenge the stigma around emotional wellbeing and champion best practice.
LawCare provides a free, independent and confidential helpline for legal professionals and their families. Practical help and support for those experiencing stress and ill health or facing redundancy as well as information for those returning after a period of maternity or paternity leave.
Hints and tips for trainees whilst being supervised remotely
We previously shared some hints and tips about how trainees can be proactive in getting the most from their remote supervision, as working from home becomes more commonplace.