Jayne Drake Leads the Committee Behind the Institute of Barristers’ Clerks’ First-Ever Awards Ceremony

The inaugural Institute of Barristers’ Clerks (IBC) Awards 2026 marked a landmark occasion for the profession, bringing together clerks, chambers professionals, barristers and industry colleagues from across the Bar to celebrate excellence, dedication and achievement within our community.

Held in the magnificent surroundings of Lincoln’s Inn, the evening was a fitting tribute to the individuals and teams whose expertise, commitment and professionalism play such a vital role in supporting chambers and the wider legal profession. The historic venue provided a spectacular backdrop as guests gathered to recognise outstanding contributions from across the industry.

From the moment attendees arrived, there was a palpable sense of excitement and pride. The event provided an opportunity not only to celebrate award winners and finalists but also to reconnect with colleagues, strengthen professional relationships and recognise the collaborative spirit that underpins the profession.

Recognising Outstanding Achievement

The awards showcased the exceptional talent, dedication and innovation that exists throughout the clerking profession. Across a range of categories, nominees demonstrated the professionalism, leadership and commitment that are essential to the success of chambers and the delivery of outstanding service to clients and barristers alike.

The evening’s winners and finalists should be immensely proud of their achievements. Their success reflects not only individual excellence but also the collective efforts of the teams and organisations that support them every day.

A Collective Achievement

While the awards celebrated individual and team success, the event itself was the result of an extraordinary collaborative effort.

The IBC Awards Committee dedicated countless hours to planning and delivering an evening worthy of the profession it represents. Their commitment, enthusiasm and attention to detail ensured that the inaugural awards exceeded expectations and established a strong foundation for future events.

Special recognition must be given to Joe Wilson, whose encouragement and vision provided the original spark for the creation of the IBC Awards. What began as a simple idea has developed into a significant event within the professional calendar, creating a platform to recognise and celebrate the invaluable contribution made by clerks and chambers professionals throughout the Bar.

Thanks are also due to Rowan Caffull, Treasurer of the IBC, whose support and confidence in the project helped make the event possible. Rowan’s agreement to part-fund the inaugural awards demonstrated the Institute’s commitment to investing in the profession and ensuring that this important celebration could become a reality.

The success of the evening was also made possible through the support of judges, volunteers and attendees, all of whom contributed to creating an event that reflected the very best of our profession.

Giving Back to the Profession

The inaugural IBC Awards were not only about celebrating success but also about supporting the wider legal community.

Thank you to The IBC Chair, Dave Scothern for suggesting this. We are delighted that 50% of all ticket sale revenue has been donated to The Bar Professionals’ Benevolent Fund, a charity that provides vital support to members of the Bar and their families during times of hardship and need.

This contribution reflects the strong sense of community that exists throughout the profession and demonstrates the willingness of those attending the awards to support colleagues beyond the workplace. It is particularly fitting that an event dedicated to recognising professional excellence should also help support those who may require assistance during challenging times.

Looking Ahead

The overwhelming support for the inaugural IBC Awards demonstrates the importance of recognising the individuals and teams who contribute so much to the success of chambers and the wider Bar.

As guests departed following an evening of celebration, there was a shared sense that something special had been created. The event provided a long-overdue opportunity to shine a spotlight on the clerking profession and acknowledge the expertise, dedication and professionalism that often take place behind the scenes.

To all nominees, finalists and winners, congratulations on your achievements.

To everyone who attended, supported and helped deliver the event, thank you.

And to the clerks and chambers professionals whose hard work, commitment and excellence continue to strengthen our profession every day, these awards are for you.

The inaugural IBC Awards has set a remarkable benchmark, and we look forward to building on its success for many years to come.