Led by Shannon Walden-Lowe, this event is a short workshop to invite reflection on the need for attention to safeguarding within the profession of counselling and psychotherapy.

Safeguarding is a key concept in both the BACP and UKCP ethical frameworks which should shape our thinking and interventions in clinical practice. More broadly speaking, we work in the context of UK legislation/ laws which require us to, in certain circumstances, report safeguarding concerns to relevant authorities e.g. modern slavery or harm to an Adult or Child. This hinges on our ability to identify and recognise indicators of harm and know who the “relevant authorities” may be which is often overlooked in counsellor/ psychotherapist training.

In this session, we will explore:

• Key points such as legal frameworks & definitions of “safeguarding"

• A brief exploration of the different domains of "safeguarding" for both adults and children

• Practical approaches to noticing and working with risk

• Reflection on the impact on the client and therapist

This will be presented via a talk/power-point with attendees invited to offer their reflections and discussion at various points. The domains of safeguarding will be explored interactively to encourage participation. It is hoped that attendees will leave with curiosity and a greater understanding of their own stance in relation to Safeguarding.

Shannon Walden-Lowe is an experienced Psychotherapeutic Counsellor (MNCPS Accred.) who supports clients through her private practice, The Space Between Counselling.

This event is hosted by CPD Sussex: an initiative focused on supporting the professional development of counsellors and psychotherapists in Brighton & Hove and the wider region.