Safeguarding

The Principal and Board of Governors recognise their responsibility in ensuring arrangements are in place to safeguard and promote the welfare of all staff and students but especially those of children (under 18), and vulnerable adults (those over 18 with a reduced capacity to give informed consent due to a mental condition, disability or illness). The governing body has appointed a designated governor for Safeguarding and Health, Safety & Wellbeing to work with College staff to monitor compliance and promotion of good practice.

Safeguarding is for all learners, Child Protection is for children and young people who have been harmed or are at significant risk of being harmed.

Suicide is the biggest killer of under 35 year olds, so it’s important to be able to spot the signs and talk openly about suicide. PAPYRUS UK has created a Self-harm & Suicide Prevention Guide following discussions with parents who have experience of supporting a young person struggling with their mental health. The aim of this guide is to provide information and guidance and to help parents cope with a young person who is struggling with thoughts of suicide; to reassure them that they are not alone.

Lancaster & Morecambe College offers a range free Distance Learning courses in understanding mental health: 

• Mental Health Awareness – Level 1
• Awareness of Mental Health Problems - Level 2
• Self-harm and Suicide Awareness Prevention - Level 2 

The rise of online platforms and apps has allowed young people to be contacted in their own homes for explicit content, while parents and carers believe they are safe. Please take some time to read through Internet Watch Foundation's "Guide for Parents & Carers" on how to make sure your home is protected from online predators. 

We have provided some useful links below but if you have any concerns, please speak with your tutor or contact our Safeguarding Team.

• Let's Talk About It 
• Think U Know 
• Share Checklist 
• Parent Zone 
• Internet Safety Tips

• National Domestic Violence Helpline (website) or call them
• NSPCC helpline: If you're worried about a child, even if you're unsure, contact NSPCC professional counsellors for help, advice and support.
• Childline: Offers free, confidential advice and support for any child 18 years or under, whatever the worry.
• MIND: Mental Health Support with specific advice on ‘Coronavirus and your wellbeing’.
• The Mental Health Foundation
• YoungMInds: Supporting children and young people and their parents/carers with their mental health and wellbeing. Specific advice on managing self-isolation and anxiety about coronavirus.
• SafeLives: Specific resources for domestic abuse and COVID.
• IRISi interventions
• Big White Wall: An anonymous community where members can talk, share & support each other.