AWARE has an established network of 24 support groups in rural and urban areas across Northern Ireland, which are run by trained volunteers. These support groups welcome people with depression and bipolar disorder as well as carers for people with the illness. They also deliver Information Outreach sessions and attend community events to give more information about AWARE and their services.

Adele O’Grady QC, chair of the Bar’s charity committee, said: “We are very happy to announce our partnership with AWARE.

“Every single one of us experiences stress from time to time and to varying degrees. Depression affects one in four of the Northern Irish population. We are certain that our members will respond positively to this partnership because at some time we have all been touched either directly or indirectly by the problems that AWARE seeks to address.”

She added: “This charity’s enthusiasm and passion is infectious - it’s going to be a great year!”

Theresa Sloan, director of fundraising and communications for AWARE, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with the Bar of NI and are looking forward to seeing the many varied and creative fundraising activities they have planned throughout the year.

“AWARE is the depression charity for Northern Ireland offering support and information as well as education through well-being and mindfulness programmes in communities, schools and workplaces. Partnering with the Bar Library will enable us to continue to deliver this education and support to those who need it most.”

Last year, the Bar raised a record-breaking total of £70,000 for homelessness charity The Welcome Organisation. The committee said it “hopes to be able to see similar results again this year”.