Greetings to all our readers

Welcome to the Winter edition of the Safeguarding Newsletter from the MITSkills Safeguarding Team. We aim to bring you all the latest, relevant help and advice on issues we feel will be of importance to you. In this issue, we talk about the worrying rise in the supply of edibles, along with the latest viral challenges to be aware of.

Domestic Abuse

Domestic abuse is any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are “personally connected” and the behaviour is abusive. Abuse can be direct or indirect (e.g., through a child). Children can be victims if they are related and see, hear or experience the abuse.

-Adapted from: Domestic Abuse: Statutory Guidance

Domestic abuse cuts across all parts of society, regardless of perceived social status, type of relationship (e.g., same-sex or heterosexual), gender identity, and cultural or religious background. Where there is domestic abuse in the family the children suffer.

Definition

Domestic abuse is not just about physical violence, it also includes sexual, economic, emotional or psychological abuse, controlling or coercive behaviour, harassment and stalking. Victims may experience several of these.

Who is affected?

Domestic abuse is unfortunately very common, with 1- in-4 women and 1-in-7 men reporting that they have experienced domestic abuse. However, these statistics are based on reported figures, and we know there are a high number of incidents that go unreported meaning that the true figures are likely to be a lot higher.
Domestic abuse is not something that just affects the children and young people that we look after – there is a significant chance that some of our colleagues are in domestically abusive relationships and may need support.

Spot the signs

Children or young people may:
• be wary of adults
• be aggressive, act out witnessed events
• have difficulty concentrating
• have difficulty developing relationships
• have reduced attendance and/or attainment
• develop an eating disorder
• have poor self-esteem, depression or anxiety
• self-harm
• misuse alcohol or other substances
• develop concerning relationships.

Why don’t they leave / say anything?

Many victims are manipulated into believing that they are at fault. It may also be that they:
• don’t yet recognise the abusive nature of relationship
• don’t think they will be believed
• have no money or anywhere to go
• feel as though they would not cope on their own
• worry about how society may view them
• are scared of what the abuser may do if they leave.
We must promote a culture where any abuse is unacceptable.

What to do

• If you have concerns about any child, follow child protection procedures and report your concerns – if there is an immediate risk of harm then call the police via 999.
• If you are concerned about an adult, a colleague or a friend, talk with them.
• You don’t need to have all the answers, but remain neutral (i.e., don’t offer opinions. Allow the person control the conversation).
• The main thing to do is listen because for victims saying anything can be an enormous step.

Take action – and keep taking action until you know they are safe.

🔗Read more (Safeguarding Network Update Domestic Abuse 2024.pptx)

Supporting Our Community During the Syria Crisis

The ongoing situation in Syria continues to affect many members of our community, particularly those with personal connections to the region. We recognise that news and developments from Syria can be emotionally challenging and may impact our students’ and staff members’ wellbeing.

 Supporting Each Other with Compassion

During these difficult times, we encourage our entire community to:

• Listen with empathy when colleagues or peers share their concerns
• Respect that individuals may be processing events differently
• Be mindful of conversations about the crisis in shared spaces
• Recognise that some community members may need additional support or space

Remember, your wellbeing matters to us. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support when needed.

MIT Safeguarding Team

The MITSkills Safeguarding Team have been trained to an advanced level on all aspects of safeguarding. The team is available to any student, parent, or staff member to discuss and report any safeguarding concerns.

The Team Members are as follows:

Sport Safeguarding

Lead

Liam Hughes

Call-07510025851

MIT Safeguarding Team Email:

safeguarding@mitskills.com

Additional support available

Mental Health First Aiders

Our trained mental health first aiders are the point of contact for anyone who is experiencing a mental health issue or emotional distress. This interaction could range from having an initial conversation through to supporting the person to get appropriate help.

In a crisis, our Mental Health First Aiders can provide early intervention help for someone who may be developing a mental health issue. Our Mental Health First Aiders are not trained therapists or psychiatrists, but they can offer initial support through non-judgemental listening and guidance.

To access this support email either Iva.Icheva@mitskills.com , Liam.Hughes@mitskills.com or stuart.francis@mitskills.com for an informal non-judgemental chat.

Support Helplines London

Support Helplines Rotherham and Humber

Support Helplines in West Yorkshire

General UK wide helplines