VLUK always putting safeguarding on top of the agenda

As an exceptional education provider, VLUK's top priority is the safeguarding of all the learners. Therefore, VLUK have recently brought on board another Designated Safeguard Lead in the shape of Jenny Butcher. Jenny is very qualified in safeguarding and has joined the team at VLUK to further enhance the provision offered. Here Jenny explains her new role and plans for the future:

"I have been more than delighted to join VLUK as part of the Safeguarding Team! Through meeting, and being welcomed by so many inspirational Learners and Staff, it is crystal clear to me that Learner opportunities are exceptional, and delivered with passion throughout VLUK. I absolutely believe in Young People and I am proud to work with them.

As well as working together for excellence and continued development in the learners chosen path, I have been impressed by the equal value placed by VLUK on the safeguarding and emotional welfare of learners.

This is where my creative ability to engage with young people has offered a new opportunity for Learners at VLUK, and I can provide a space where we can work together, to draw on their own resources and resilience and get through tough times.

I joined VLUK earlier this year and during the Covid19 Pandemic, where the effects of lockdown, social isolation, distancing and uncertainty are widely recognised as having been particularly difficult during Young Adulthood, hopefully we now are on our way to a healthier world.

I have worked extensively with Young People for 25 years, both in education, and alongside in the voluntary sector. As an Integrated counsellor, I am trained to work within a range of theoretical approaches, including CBT, depending on the learners needs.   I also have extensive experience as a ‘Designated Safeguarding Lead’ within a large 2-19 Academy.  At the heart of my work is unconditional positive regard, and I consider it a privilege to work with our Learners.

Already in VLUK we have enhanced the safeguarding management system for Safeguarding, and particularly, with the help of IT, we now have an online self-referral resource for learners, which includes National Helplines.  VLUK Tutors are fully involved in supporting their Learners emotional and mental health too which is a real asset.  Learners' parents and carers have also been incredibly supportive when ever I have talked to them.

I’m married to Rob, and we have three grown up children, and four Grandchildren, their ages between 6 weeks and 13 years, each of whom is a joy to us!  We have recently moved to Staffordshire, enjoy walks with Ivy, our dog, and as lockdown eases we are getting out to explore some beautiful countryside.  I work part-time, which is great for my work/life balance".