Safeguarding at the Arthur Findlay College

Safeguarding Manager Embarks on Yoga Teacher Training Journey –
A Personal Update from Our Safeguarding Manager

Hi everyone,

Since joining the Arthur Findlay College as Safeguarding Manager earlier this year, I have had such a warm welcome and have really enjoyed becoming part of College life.

At the end of September, from 24th September to 21st October, I will be swapping my office for a yoga mat in Koh Samui, Thailand, where I will be undertaking an intensive 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training course.

Yoga has been part of my life for some time, and for me it has never just been about the physical practice. Yoga, meditation and particularly coming back to the breath have helped me to remain grounded and present in my professional life too. Safeguarding can mean supporting people through difficult moments and hearing things that are sometimes challenging. Looking after our own wellbeing and recognising when something is affecting us are, I believe, important parts of remaining a safe and well practitioner.

There are also some lovely parallels with the work we do at the College. Whether teaching yoga, mediumship, healing or spiritual development, people place trust in us, and awareness of boundaries, consent, wellbeing and the responsibility that comes with that trust are important in any practice.

What happens while I am away?

Safeguarding at the College will continue as usual. Seamus and Ross, our dedicated General Manager and Deputy General Manager, will be providing safeguarding cover and will be available to students, tutors and staff should any concerns arise.

I will be back in October, hopefully refreshed, a little wiser and considerably more flexible!

I am really looking forward to this next little adventure and to sharing some of what I learn when I return.

Gemma
Safeguarding Manager

At the Arthur Findlay College, we are committed to creating a safe, respectful and supportive environment for all students, tutors, staff, volunteers and visitors.
Safeguarding is about protecting people from harm, promoting wellbeing, and making sure concerns are responded to appropriately.
If something is worrying you whether it relates to you or someone else you can speak to us.
You do not need to be sure that something is a safeguarding concern before reaching out.

When should I contact Safeguarding?

You may wish to contact us if you are concerned about:

feeling unsafe or vulnerable
bullying, harassment or intimidation
inappropriate behaviour or boundary concerns
abuse, neglect or exploitation
concerns about a child, young person or adult at risk
emotional wellbeing or vulnerability concerns
behaviour that makes you feel uncomfortable
concerns about someone else’s safety or welfare

No concern is too small to raise.

Speak To Gemma

Hi, my name is Gemma and I’m the Safeguarding Manager here at The Arthur Findlay College.

If something is worrying you, or you’re concerned about yourself or someone else, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

You do not need to be sure that something is a safeguarding concern before speaking to someone sometimes it simply helps to talk things through.

You can speak to me, a member of AFC staff, or your tutor, and we will help make sure you get the right support.

I’m here to listen, support you, and help you access the right support if needed. No appointment needed just come and talk. You can also submit a concern using the form at the bottom of this page.

Drop-in Support:

Every Wednesday
11:00 – 11:30 (during tea break)

CONTACT THE SAFEGUARDING TEAM

Email: safeguarding@snu.org.uk
Telephone: 01279 816363

We aim to respond to safeguarding enquiries within 24 working hours (Monday to Friday).

IMMEDIATE DANGER OR EMERGENCY

If someone is in immediate danger or requires urgent help, please contact:

999 Emergency Services
101 Police (non-emergency)

Safeguarding concerns can also be reported to the College or SNU Safeguarding Team after emergency action has been taken.

Confidentiality

Safeguarding concerns are treated seriously and sensitively.

Information will be handled appropriately and shared only where necessary to protect someone, meet safeguarding duties, or comply with legal obligations.

Please be aware that we cannot always keep information confidential where someone may be at risk of harm.

SAFEGUARDING IS EVERYONE’S RESPONSIBILITY!

If something does not feel right, please speak to someone. Or fill in the below form.

Raising a concern does not mean you need to have all the answers it simply allows the right people to help.

The Arthur Findlay College is dedicated to maintaining a safe and respectful residential learning environment for everyone. In support of this commitment, please read our Student Code of Conduct here.