This agreement sets out arrangements for participation in the Professional Training Course in Holistic Massage run by the Bristol College of Massage and Bodywork (BCMB) which starts on XXXXXXXXX and finishing on YYYYYYYY.

Name:

Address:

Phone Number: Email:

A BCMB’s Commitment

BCMB will provide training in holistic massage over 27 days (excluding exam days) on the dates and times specified in the Course Registration letter. Students who successfully complete the course and pass all the assessments are awarded the Level 4 Diploma in Holistic Massage, Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology from the Massage training Institute (MTI). This course is monitored by MTI’s Quality Commitment and Assurance system.

B Student’s Commitment

In signing this Learning Contract, students accept the Terms and Conditions attached to the training course as specified on the BCMB website, in the Course Registration letter sent to each student, the Course Handbook, the Course Manual and also this Contract. BCMB accepts its obligations as set out in its policies and procedures on the BCMB website.

C COVID-19 Safety Policy

You are required to follow all necessary BCMB procedures for minimising the risk of COVID-19 transmission. A copy of the BCMB Teaching protocol and the student COVID-19 requirements, along with our COVID-19 risk assessment, can be found on the policies and procedures section of the BCMB website

D Equal Opportunities

BCMB operates an Equality and Diversity Policy, which is available on the BCMB website and which follows the provisions of the Equality Act 2010. Students are required to respect that policy as an important of this Learning contract. All students have the right to be treated fairly and reasonably throughout the course, whatever their gender, sexual orientation, physical or mental capacity, personal or religious beliefs, race and ethnicity or age.

E Safeguarding

BCMB operates a safeguarding policy for students and clients, available on the BCMB website. This applies the standards embedded in this Learning Contract.

F Attendance and Catch-Up

Students will attend the course at the times specified in the Course Registration letter and on the website, unless exceptional circumstances prevent them from doing so. In such cases, students will notify the teaching team in advance and make arrangements for catch up tutorials.

Students who fall sick at short notice should contact a tutor by mobile phone, with a text or voicemail. They should not call the office phone or leave a message on the group’s Facebook page.

There is a BCMB minimum attendance requirement of 80% ie 21 days out of 27. If a student needs to miss any of the course, s/he will make arrangements with the course tutors to attend a catch up session. This will be charged at the rate of £35 per hour. One day of the course can usually be caught up in a 2 hour session ie a total cost of £70. How much catch up will be required in each case is at the discretion of the teaching team. Often there is a need for more input at an earlier stage of the course.

In addition, massage exchange sessions with course tutors are also available at £35 per hour, costing £70 for 2 hours.

G Personal Disclosure and Confidentiality

Students are required to notify BCMB of any physical or mental health issues that may affect their participation in and successful completion of the massage course. This is part of BCMB’s duty of care to all students, the teaching staff and the general public. This information is held in the strictest confidence by BCMB staff and is not disclosed to anyone else without permission. It enables BCMB to assess each student’s support needs and how those needs might be met. Failure to disclose relevant information might adversely affect a student’s participation in and completion of the course.

Also any personal information disclosed by students during teaching sessions, including catch-up and exchange, may be shared between relevant staff team members. This is part of the team’s supportive role towards students. Such information will go no further without explicit permission. This provision may not apply if there is a safety issue for other students or staff or if BCMB suspect that criminal activity might be involved. BCMB adheres to the Data Protection Act 1998.

H Personal Support

This course takes a holistic perspective, including physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of massage therapy. Thus during the course students may need to consider their emotional issues and responses, physical symptoms and spiritual journey. However, the course is not a substitute for personal therapy, whether through counselling or psychotherapy, physical treatment or spiritual guidance. If necessary, students will seek such support outside the course environment.

I Course Completion

In order to be entered for the final MTI assessments, students must satisfy BCMB’s requirements regarding their:

Folder of work including the 50 hour massage practice diary, personal journal and BCMB’s set assignments, known as Milestones

Full body massage

Standards of Professional Conduct (see below)

Payment of all course fees

Note that MTI also require the folder of work (QC5) and full body massage (QC4) to be satisfactory before the final assessments can be entered.

In order to be awarded the MTI Diploma, students must also pass the:

Written Examination in Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology and the

Individual practical examination.

BCMB will give extensive guidance and preparation to complete these tasks successfully.

J Standards of Professional Conduct

The following conduct is seen as essential by BCMB and MTI, to reassure all students and the general public of the standards being worked to. This code should be read in conjunction with the MTI Code of Ethics for Student Practitioners attached at Appendix A. Although these issues are rarely a matter of dispute, inappropriate conduct could prevent a student from graduating, or even mean s/he is asked to leave the course:

Being sensitive to others’ needs; having the consistent ability to establish, maintain and develop rapport. In particular, respecting boundaries around appropriate touch, showing discretion around undressing and draping.

At the same time, taking care of oneself e.g. undertaking massage when confident that one has the stamina and ability to focus.

Taking necessary steps, if needed, to resolve issues with other course members. Seeking support including mediation, as required, from the training team.

Demonstrating appropriate confidence in oneself, one’s skills and massage in general, to clients and others eg not putting oneself down or demonstrating to clients or colleagues that one expects failure.

Social reliability: being on time; keeping promises; honouring confidentiality; respecting professional and ethical requirements; maintaining boundaries.

Maintaining a professional appearance; personal hygiene, tidiness and appropriate clothing.

K Course Fees

Students accepting a place on this course are liable for the full fees, as specified on the BCMB website and in the Course Registration letter. Fees are payable either by lump sum (with a discount) or by instalments but the liability for full fees remains, whichever form of payment is chosen.

The fees include all tuition and examination fees, course manuals, MTI textbook in Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology, tutor support and feedback during the course. They do not include equipment such as a massage table, oils and towels, other books, or additional supervision sessions.

Students experiencing difficulty with the course should communicate as soon as possible with the teaching team. Course fees are only refundable in exceptional circumstances.

L Insurance and DBS

BCMB requires all students on its professional level courses to take out insurance. Students are expected to arrange and pay for this themselves. BCMB will send students an insurance form with their registration packs. This should be completed and returned to Balens, our insurer, as soon as possible. Students must make sure they are insured before the course start date otherwise they will be in breach of their learning contract

The Massage Training Institute and BCMB also strongly recommends that students are DBS checked. This is most useful for placements involving work with children and /or vulnerable adults. Currently the cost is £56 and this is paid for by the student. BCMB will provide instructions for getting a DBS check and will verify the application.

M Disciplinary Procedures and Complaints

BCMB operates a Disciplinary Procedure for breaches of this Learning Contract and especially the code of professional conduct. This is available on the BCMB website as is the BCMB Complaints policy.

In signing below, students agree to be bound by this Learning Contract. They should also sign the MTI Code of Ethics at Appendix A.

The signed Learning Contract must be returned to the BCMB office within one week of a course starting. Students who do not do this may be asked to leave the course.

Name: Signature:

(please print)

Date:

Signed on behalf of BCMB: Date:

Please check the postal address we have used and note any corrections here:

May your personal details be put on a list of course members? Yes No

This is very helpful to facilitate group support and learning.

APPENDIX A

MTI CODE OF ETHICS FOR

REGISTERED STUDENT PRACTITIONERS

Tutor – please ask student to sign and attach this form to the student learning contract.

1. INTRODUCTION

The Massage Training Institute (MTI) is committed to ensuring that the highest standards of teaching and practice are maintained at all times.

2. THE STUDENT’S RESPONSIBILITY TO THE PROFESSION AND COLLEAGUES

2.1 Students must ensure they are competent to give massage in the best interests of the client. If this is not possible, through ill health – mentally or physically – the student should refrain from practising.

2.2 Students should be aware of their limitations and seek advice from their tutor where necessary.

2.3 Students should not make any kind of medical diagnosis of or prescribe treatment for a client unless qualified to do so.

Students should ensure that clients are aware of the complementary nature of the treatment and advise them to seek medical help wherever appropriate.

Students must be aware of contra-indications to massage and have a responsibility to ask clients about any medical treatment and medication, and to be able to consult the GP, if appropriate.

2.4 Students must not make any claims to cure.

2.5 Students should be aware of the laws prohibiting complementary therapists from treating certain medical conditions. It is an offence to massage a woman in childbirth, or for ten days thereafter, without the consent of a medical practitioner.

2.6 Students must comply with their school’s student learning contract.

3. PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT

3.1 Students should be mindful of the responsibility they have to their fellow students and clients; shall not abuse the trust placed in them and shall at all times act with integrity.

3.2 Students must ensure that confidentiality is maintained. Consent of the client must be obtained, if any information is disclosed, except in the case of professional supervision or when the law requires this.

3.3 Students must not engage in sexual activity with their client.

3.4 In the case of a client under the age of 16 years, the parent must be in the room when the child is being massaged. See also Section 13.1 ‘Working with children’.

3.5 Students shall have respect for the religious, political and social views of any individual irrespective of race, colour, creed, sex or sexual orientation.

3.6 Students shall at all times maintain high standards of hygiene, both personal and in the learning and work environment.

3.7 Students must not allow inappropriate feelings or behaviour to intrude with fellow students or clients,

3.8 Students must respect and demonstrate boundaries around appropriate touch, undressing and draping.

3.9 Students should demonstrate the appropriate personal qualities expected of a massage practitioner during the course.

4. DISCIPLINE AND COMPLAINTS

4.1 Students shall agree to observe this code of practice and agree to be bound by any disciplinary action that it may be necessary for MTI to take against them, by signing the declaration below.

_____________________________________________________________________

I ………………………………………………………… (block capitals) agree to observe the Massage Training Institute’s Code of Ethics for Registered Student Practitioners and agree to be bound by any decision taken by MTI by way of disciplinary action, should this be necessary.

Dated …………………………………………. Signed ………………………………………………………………

Learners who have a complaint against any aspect of BCMB’s conduct, whether by teaching or administrative staff, are asked to notify the Director as soon as possible by email or letter, setting out the content of the complaint and all related circumstances.

Learners may contact the Director on his personal email or mobile as these communications are entirely confidential. Details as follows:

Email: andyfagg54@gmail.com Phone: 07986 360845

Address: BCMB Director, Lower Ground Floor, 109 Pembroke Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3EU

Complaints will be acknowledged within 24 hours of being received. If the Director is not available, a deputy will have been appointed as Investigating Officer. This will be a senior member of BCMB staff. If there is a potential conflict of interest, then a suitable alternative from outside BCMB may be appointed, with the complainant’s agreement. This may include an MTI tutor or regional rep from outside BCMB.

Complaints will be investigated thoroughly and personally by the Director or appointed Investigating Officer. This may include a meeting with the complainant to examine all the evidence involved.

A full response will be made to the complainant within 21 days of the complaint being received. This may include any appropriate reparation.

Should the complaint concern the Director himself, learners should contact:

Sarah Mclellan, Course Leader, BCMB, Lower Ground Floor, 109 Pembroke Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3EU

Email: enquiries@bristolmassage.co.uk Phone: 0117 946 6371

The complaint will be investigated by 2 other members of the teaching team, acceptable to the complainant. The investigation will be conducted independently of the Director.

BCMB will also fulfill its duty of responsibility towards external investigations, whether conducted by MTI, the police or other relevant authorities.

Students who are not satisfied with the outcome of this process may submit a complaint to MTI under the MTI Student Complaint Procedure

BCMB

July 2015

A INTRODUCTION

BCMB’s ethos is one of support and guidance. As a College, we recognize that students who demonstrate difficult behaviour on our courses may need our help and we do all we can to provide this. In extremely rare cases, however, there may be a need for disciplinary action to safeguard all students and the teaching staff concerned. This disciplinary procedure deals with breaches of the BCMB Learning Contract, signed by students at the start of their Professional Training Course. It sets out:

Definition of a breach

Deciding if a breach has occurred

A staged process including informal and formal warnings as well as a full disciplinary hearing

Sanctions available to BCMB

Right of Appeal

BCMB may invoke this procedure if a member of the teaching team suspects that a breach has taken place. It applies to conduct in the learning environment of professional massage courses run by BCMB. It may also apply to students’ conduct outside the BCMB environment, especially where that conduct could bring the reputation of BCMB into disrepute eg by doing massage inappropriately or posing a danger to the public or a fellow student.

This procedure does not preclude the Massage Training Institute (MTI) from following its own Disciplinary Procedure in relation to a student’s conduct.

B BREACH

A breach of the Learning Contract is defined as a violation of the Terms and Conditions of the Learning Contract. This may be accidental or deliberate. This may include poor attendance eg persistent lateness or absence (Learning Contract Section E), failure to disclose important information (Section F),

failure to complete study assignments (Section H), unprofessional conduct (Section I), non-payment of fees (Section J)

no insurance (Section K)

A breach may be minor if it only occurs once eg non-payment of a fee instalment after one month; poor draping technique leading to exposure; accidentally sharing confidential information without permission. A minor breach will lead to an informal warning.

A breach may be major if it occurs repeatedly or is sufficiently serious eg non-payment of course fees for 3 months; deliberate exposure of oneself or fellow students; sharing confidential information that can be damaging to others verbally or on social media; touching intimate areas of a client’s or fellow student’s body without permission; harassment of staff, clients or fellow students.

A major breach will normally lead immediately to a formal warning although, if sufficiently serious, BCMB may move straight to a Disciplinary Hearing. This is defined as incidents of abuse as set out in Appendix A of the BCMB Safeguarding Policy and incidents where criminal activity is suspected.

C DECIDING IF A BREACH HAS OCCURRED

It is the prerogative of the Course Leader, in consultation with the College Director, to decide whether a breach has taken place and to invoke this procedure. This may be invoked at the same time as the BCMB Safeguarding Policy.

Before deciding if any breach has occurred, the Course Leader should discuss matters with the student(s) concerned as well as other relevant parties eg other course members or teaching staff. It is recommended that this be conducted informally in the first instance.

Course Leaders will decide within 7 days of an incident if a breach has taken place.

BCMB also reserves the right to report sufficiently serious cases to the police, especially if there is suspicion of criminal activity.

D STAGED PROCESS

There is a 3 stage disciplinary process:

Informal Warning

The course leader will explain verbally to the student concerned that s/he has breached the Learning Contract and in what manner. This will take place within 14 days of the incident concerned. The course leader will make recommendations on what should happen to rectify the situation. A note will be left on the student’s file recording the date, time and content of the warning and the student’s response.

A student may receive 2 or more informal warnings but not for the same breach. Any repeated breach will lead to at least a formal warning, if not a full Disciplinary Hearing.

Formal Warning

The course leader will notify the student in writing of the breach. This will set out clearly what has happened and what measures the student should take to rectify the situation. The student will be asked to sign a copy of the written warning. The possibility of this leading to a full Disciplinary Hearing will be made clear. The written warning will be placed on the student’s file. This will take place within 14 days of the incident concerned. The student will have a right of reply, which may be verbally or in writing to the Course Leader or College Director.

A student may only receive one formal warning. Any further breach, minor or major, will lead immediately to a full Disciplinary Hearing.

Disciplinary Hearing

Disciplinary hearings will take place as soon as possible and no later than 21 days from the original incident.

The student will be provided with written evidence 3 days in advance of the Hearing, setting out fully the nature of the alleged breach and the possible sanctions.

The evidence will be provided by the Investigating Officer, who will usually be the Course Leader concerned. See Note 1.

The student may have a personal supporter in attendance at the hearing, who should not be from the legal field or trained in law.

Hearings are managed by the Course Leader and another senior member of BCMB staff, who has not taught the student concerned.

Neither party to the Hearing should have legal representation, although legal advice may be sought in advance if required.

Hearings are conducted in accordance with the civil code ie they examine the balance of probabilities.

Hearings examine the evidence and if upheld, BCMB may impose suitable sanctions. The conclusion of the hearing is recorded and placed on the student’s file.

As a safeguarding measure, students who are subject to a Disciplinary Hearing will be suspended from taking part in the course until the Hearing is completed. If there is an Appeal against any sanction (see section F), then the suspension will continue until the Appeal process is completed.

All notes on disciplinary matters relating to students’ conduct may also be made available to MTI or the police as required.

E SANCTIONS

BCMB reserves the right to impose suitable sanctions, according to the circumstances involved. Sanctions may also be combined eg deferring a qualification coupled with a programme of supervision. Sanctions should be appropriate and proportionate to the circumstances involved. They may include:

Reporting non-payment of fees to debt collection agencies.

Expulsion from the course.

Deferring the student’s qualification (ie not signing the QC8 required by MTI) with clear conditions on what needs to happen before the qualification can be awarded.

Requiring a programme of supervision sessions charged for at a rate set by the Course Leader concerned. These sessions will aim to rectify issues arising from the case eg enabling the student to complete missing assignments; to prepare for examinations; to consider matters of conduct and how the student’s behavior should be modified.

BCMB reserves the right to retain all course fees in the event of disciplinary sanctions being imposed.

Students who are suspended but allowed to continue with the course following investigation will be provided with tutorial support as required. This will catch up any missed lessons. It will be at the discretion of the Course Leader whether to charge the student concerned for these tutorials. Students who are cleared of all wrong doing will not be charged.

F APPEAL

A student who has been called for a Disciplinary Hearing and been the subject of sanctions has the right of appeal, as follows:

The Appeal must be heard within 14 days of the Disciplinary Hearing

The Appeals Panel will be the College Director, the Course Leader concerned and an independent person from the MTI, such as a tutor or regional representative. The panel membership will be agreed in advance by all parties.

The student may have a personal supporter in attendance at the hearing, who should not be from the legal field or trained in law.

Neither party to the Appeal should have legal representation, although legal advice may be sought in advance if required.

Appeals are conducted in accordance with the civil code ie they examine the balance of probabilities.

The appeal will hear the student’s case against the sanctions. A response will be given within 72 hours.

If upheld, the student’s appeal will lead to the sanctions being withdrawn and any financial costs incurred by the student will be reimbursed.

* * * * * * * * * * *

Note 1

If the Course Leader or College Director are not available eg sick or on holiday, then there 2 options:

Timescales are renegotiated as required

Suitable alternatives officers are appointed eg a Senior teaching assistant instead of the Course Leader; another senior member of BCMB staff eg another Course Leader, instead of the College Director. These decisions are made in agreement with the student concerned and may be preferable to possible delays.

Disciplinary Procedure – How it works:

Introduction

Massage therapy is the giving and receiving of touch for healing. This is a powerful indeed intimate modality and could, in the wrong hands, be open to abuse. Given these sensitivities, BCMB places the highest importance on safe professional practice. This emphasis is reflected in the following:

The Code of Professional Conduct embedded in the BCMB Learning Contract and signed by all BCMB students.

The BCMB Disciplinary Procedure, referred to in the Learning Contract.

The ground rules for safe practice established on the first morning of each BCMB Diploma course.

The standards taught throughout BCMB training courses, with an emphasis on appropriate boundaries and consent at all stages.

The assessment standards applied at the end of training courses, as established by the Massage Training institute.

The standards of continuing professional practice upheld by BCMB’s further training programme and supervision system.

This document considers the policy and actions required should any abuse take place. The term “abuse” is defined in Appendix A. Guidance to BCMB staff on how to deal with alleged abuse can be found at Appendix B; the Designated Named Person is shown at Appendix C.

Policy

BCMB has a zero tolerance of any unacceptable behaviour or abuse towards any BCMB stakeholders, in areas under BCMB’s watch. These are defined as activities taking place on BCMB premises, whether during interviews, clinics, training courses or supervision groups.

In this context, BCMB “stakeholders” are defined to be students, graduates, staff and clients participating in activities organised by BCMB.

Actions

Should any unacceptable behaviour or abuse be reported, immediate safeguarding action will be taken. This action will be appropriate, proportionate and tailored to the situation but is likely to include:

Immediate referral to the Designated Named Person for safeguarding BCMB stakeholders. See Appendix C.

Swift investigation of relevant information through discussion with the relevant parties. This may include attempts to mediate if appropriate.

Removal of the affected parties from the situation eg

Suspension of the students/staff concerned from a course whilst the matter is investigated

Cancelling clinic appointments for unsuitable clients.

Consideration of any disciplinary action that may be required, under the BCMB Disciplinary Procedure.

Any staff proven to be responsible for abuse will be dismissed immediately.

If required, referral to other appropriate agencies, eg social services or the police, should there be a suspicion that criminal activity has taken place.

Recording and managing Information

BCMB is committed to maintaining confidentiality wherever possible and information around Safeguarding Adults issues should be shared only with those who need to know.

All allegations/concerns should be recorded in a relevant file. The information should be factual and not based on opinions, record what has been said, what has been seen and witness accounts if appropriate. The information that is recorded will be kept secure and will comply with the Data Protection Act 1998.

This information will be secured in a locked filing cabinet or on a password protected computer file. Access to this information will be restricted to the Designated Named Person and the BCMB Office Manager.

* * * * * * * * * * *

Appendix A

“Abuse is a violation of an individual’s human and civil rights by any other person or persons”

(No Secrets: Department of Health, 2000)

Abuse includes:

physical abuse: including hitting, slapping, punching, burning, misuse of medication, inappropriate restraint

sexual abuse: including rape, indecent assault, inappropriate touching, exposure to pornographic material

psychological or emotional abuse: including belittling, name calling, threats of harm, intimidation, isolation financial or material abuse: including stealing, selling assets, fraud, misuse or misappropriation of property, possessions or benefits

neglect and acts of omission: including withholding the necessities of life such as medication, food or warmth, ignoring medical or physical care needs

discriminatory abuse: including racist, sexist, that based on a person’s disability and other forms of harassment, slurs or similar treatment institutional or organisational: including regimented routines and cultures, unsafe practices, lack of person-centred care or treatment. Abuse may be carried out deliberately or unknowingly. Abuse may be a single act or repeated acts.

Appendix B

Guidance to BCMB staff. These guidelines establish good practice for BCMB staff who hear an allegation from a student that abuse has, or may have, occurred.

Receive What is said

Accept what you are told – you do not need to decide whether or not it is true

Listen without displaying shock or disbeliefReassureThe student:

Acknowledge their courage in telling

Do not promise confidentiality

Remind them they are not to blame – avoid criticising the alleged perpetrator

Do not promise that “everything will be alright now” (it might not be)ReactRespond to the student but do not interrogate

Avoid leading questions but ask open ended ones

Clarify anything you do not understand

Explain what you will do next, i.e. inform the Designated PersonRecordMake notes as soon as possible – during the interview if you can

Use the student’s own words – do not assume – ask, e.g. “Please tell me what xxxxx means”

Include: time, date, place

Describe observable behaviour and appearance

Cross out mistakes – do not use Tippex

Do not destroy your original notes – they may be needed later on and must be given to the Designated PersonSupportConsider what support is needed for the student. This may mean allocating some of your time, or that of a colleagues, to follow up phone calls or meetings.

Ensure you are supported – such interviews can be extremely stressful and time consuming.

Once reported to them the Designated Person will take responsibility for the matter and will take all of the necessary actions. However if you have questions or need additional support then do ask.

Appendix C

The Designated Named Person for safeguarding issues will be:

Name: Sarah Mcllelan

Personal email: sarahmclellan20@gmail.com Mobile telephone: 07783 943298

Should Sarah be involved with the details of the case, then another suitable member of the BCMB Management Group will be appointed, with the agreement of all parties.

Should the initial investigation fail to reach a conclusion satisfactory to all parties, then the matter will be referred to the College Founder and Person of Significant

Control:

Name: Andy Fagg

Personal email: andyfagg54gmail.com Mobile Telephone: 07986 360845

1 Scope of policy

Bristol College of Massage and Bodywork (BCMB) is committed to creating an environment where learners, customers, staff, management and other stakeholders celebrate equality and diversity in all activities.

2 Position statement

BCMB is committed to creating a place where everyone, whatever their circumstances and/or background:

Is fully respected

Is listened to and encouraged to give their views

Feels welcomed and Is treated in a friendly way

Is treated in an equal way

Has equality of opportunity

Has full access to all activities wherever possible

Discrimination on the grounds of age, race, gender, marital status, nationality/citizenship, religion/belief, sexuality, gender re-assignment, social background or any personal characteristic of the individual(s) will not be tolerated. Students with a disability will need to have the capacity to do massage; they will be offered as much support as is reasonable for the College to provide.

Learners, clients and staff are expected to behave in a way which makes other people feel accepted, comfortable and safe.

BCMB values everyone as an individual and celebrates diversity by encouraging people to be successful as themselves.

3 Policy statements

BCMB will work to ensure that:

Equality of opportunity is embedded in all policies, practices, decision-making and evaluation processes

A visibly diverse environment is created which values difference and raises aspiration

Flexible opportunities are offered which meet local learning needs and enable all students to realise their potential

All staff are clear about standards and strategies to meet diverse learner needs and are equipped to respond effectively

There are clear procedures for challenging discrimination, harassment and unacceptable behaviour

Rigorous analysis is undertaken to identify equality gaps, and strategies to address these issues are implemented and monitored through equality and diversity impact measures

Positive images of achievement from all sections of society are recognised and celebrated. No member of its community is unfairly disadvantaged because of their social or economic background

Student applications are welcomed from all sections of society and selection is made on the basis of specified skills and abilities. Exceptions are only permitted in the event that there is a genuine occupational requirement

3.1 Inclusiveness

Inclusiveness is central to all the decisions and actions of BCMB staff.

Staff are responsible for ensuring that they are aware of, and meet, their statutory responsibilities.

Learners are made aware of, and expected to behave in a way that is consistent with, BCMB’s equality and diversity policy. Individual breaches of the policy will be dealt with under the disciplinary and safeguarding procedures. BCMB will support individuals who have a justified complaint.

3.2 Commitment

BCMB believes a commitment to equality is more effectively met when it is embedded across a range of activities. The Director is responsible for monitoring this policy.

4 Gender

4.1 Position statement

BCMB will:

Work actively to create a supportive and inclusive environment for all that enables full participation and success in learning and will actively combat discrimination in every area of BCMB life. BCMB will not allow sexual harassment or unfavourable treatment in any form.

Recognise that people are often treated unfairly in terms of education, training and employment because of their gender. BCMB aims to eradicate gender discrimination and to actively promote gender equality

4.2 Policy statements

BCMB will:

Oppose sexism and be committed to taking positive action to identify and remove sexism from all BCMB activities

Monitor and review the participation and performance of male and female students and redress inequalities

Positively encourage learners in ways that minimise gender stereotyping

Not tolerate sexual harassment in any area of BCMB life. Any incidences of sexual harassment will be vigorously challenged through BCMB’s disciplinary procedures

Not tolerate discrimination on the grounds of gender re-assignment towards either trans-gendered or transsexual people

Ensure that BCMB activities are family-friendly to encourage full participation

5 Sexual orientation

5.1 Position statement

BCMB:

Is working actively to create a supportive and inclusive environment for all that enables full participation and success in learning and will actively combat discrimination in every area of BCMB life. BCMB will not allow sexual harassment or unfavourable treatment in any form.

Recognises that people are often treated unfairly in terms of education, training and employment because of their sexuality. BCMB aims is to eradicate discrimination on the grounds of sexuality and to promote equality of opportunity for all

5.2 Policy statements

BCMB will:

Strongly oppose discrimination on the grounds of sexuality and is committed to taking positive action to identify and remove homophobia from BCMB activities

Encourage positive acceptance of gay, lesbian, bisexual, gender re-assignment and heterosexual people

Not tolerate homophobic harassment in any area of BCMB activity. BCMB’s commitments will be made explicit to new learners and staff. Sexual harassment and discrimination will be challenged through BCMB’s disciplinary procedures

Ensure BCMB’s practices are family-friendly and will apply equally to households based on same-sex partnerships and to non-traditional parenting and care arrangements where appropriate legislation is in place

6 Disability

6.1 Position statement

BCMB:

Aims to identify and eliminate attitudes, practices and procedures that discriminate against people on the grounds of disability and/or learning difficulty

Is committed to ensuring an inclusive, professional and friendly environment for students, employees and members of the public with disabilities and/or learning difficulties

6.2 Policy statements

BCMB fully accepts its responsibilities under the Disability Discrimination Act Part 4 (and any subsequent amendments thereto) and is committed to making any reasonable adjustments within its business activities that will promote equal access and opportunity for students, employees and members of the public with disabilities and/or learning difficulties using BCMB facilities.

BCMB will ensure that all learners with a disability and learners with learning difficulties have access to:

Appropriate opportunities to disclose disability and/or learning difficulty throughout their time as a learner at BCMB

Flexible and inclusive learning opportunities

Assessment of need to ensure that any reasonable adjustments to BCMB provision are made and are appropriate to the individual

Direct and indirect, student centred learning support to enable access to BCMB provision including specialist equipment and technology offer. BCMB may be able to offer some funding support

Information on support available

BCMB will ensure that all potential and current staff with disabilities and/or learning difficulties have access to:

Appropriate opportunities to disclose disability and/or learning difficulty throughout their time at BCMB

Employment opportunities including promotion and are not refused due to a disability and/or learning difficulty

Specialist equipment and technology and other reasonable adjustments to allow equal opportunity as an employee

BCMB will maintain strong links with external agencies to ensure the provision of appropriate and effective support for staff with disabilities and/or learning difficulties

BCMB is committed to:

Ensuring that its services and facilities are open to the public

Equal and dignified treatment in the provision of those services and facilities

7 Religious observance or belief

7.1 Position statement

BCMB recognises the need to ensure compliance with the Employment Equality (Religion or Belief) Regulations (and any subsequent amendments there to) under which it is unlawful to discriminate against workers because of religion or similar belief.

For the purposes of treating all students and staff equally on religious grounds, BCMB defines religion or belief as being any named religion, religious belief or similar philosophical belief. It will therefore be for the employment tribunals and other courts to decide whether particular circumstances are covered by the regulations

7.2 Policy statement

BCMB will:

Not discriminate directly against anyone. That is, to treat them less favourably than others because of their religion or belief

Not discriminate indirectly against anyone. That is to apply a criterion, provision or practice which disadvantages people of a particular religion or belief unless it can be objectively justified

Not subject anyone to harassment. Harassment is unwanted conduct that violates a person’s dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment having regard to all the circumstances and the perception of the victim

Not victimise anyone because they have made, or intend to make a complaint or allegation, or have given or intend to give evidence in relation to a complaint of discrimination on the grounds of religion or belief

Not discriminate or harass anyone in certain circumstances after the working relationship has ended

8 Race and ethnicity

8.1 Position statement

BCMB:

Is committed to promoting equality of opportunity and good race relations between persons of different groups and avoiding racial discrimination, whether direct or indirect

Recognises its responsibilities under the Race Relations Act 1976 (and any subsequent amendments thereto)

8.2 Policy statements

BCMB actively supports and welcomes diversity amongst its students, staff and visitors, recognising the particular contributions to the achievement of its mission that can be made by individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences.

BCMB is committed to:

Actively tackling racial discrimination, and promoting racial equality and good race relations

Encouraging, supporting and helping all students and staff to reach their potential

Working with other institutions, local communities and others to tackle racial discrimination and to encourage and promote good practice in achieving race equality

Assessing the effects of the policy on staff and students from different racial groups

Monitoring, by racial group, the admission and progress of students, and the recruitment and career development of staff

9 Age

9.1 Position statement

BCMB:

Recognises that people are often discriminated against and stereotyped because of their age. This is evident in the range of beliefs, assumptions and attitudes which underpin judgements about an individual’s potential, behaviour and preferences

Believes that prejudice and discrimination on the grounds of age (ageism) have no place in an educational establishment. There should be no discrimination employment on the grounds of age. The College will not discriminate against students on the grounds of age, except that there is a national minimum age requirement of 18 for starting an MTI accredited massage course.

Recognises the value of lifelong learning and that an individual’s life experiences add to their role as a member of the BCMB community and their personal learning experience

9.2 Policy statements

BCMB will:

Promote and actively support educational achievement for people of all ages

Provide learning experiences which meet the needs of particular cohorts

Develop teaching and learning and support strategies to meet the particular needs of learners from different age groups

Promote positive images of achievement by people of all ages and which recognise and celebrate the knowledge and experience which people bring their learning throughout life

Welcome job applications from all age groups and select on the basis of specified skills and abilities

BCMB

July 2015

Insurance

Insurance is obligatory for student undertaking trainings at BCMB and it is the student’s responsibility to insure themselves. This is in the region of £15pa. Remedial and Sports Massage Students who already have insurance through the MTI Block Scheme with Balens can add Remedial/Sports Massage to their policy at no extra cost.

Students are sent an insurance proposal form with their joining packs. These need to be completed and returned direct to Balens. Students should display their policy certificate at the front of their study folders.

This will also make it easier for students to participate in events where BCMB offers massage treatments e.g. the Harbourside Festival.

Students who are already qualified and insured therapists in another complementary health discipline, will need to add massage to their existing policy. They should arrange this and show their new insurance certificate to their course leader within the first month.

DBS

The Disclosure and Barring Service provides checks of people’s criminal records. A Certificate is issued which is the personal property of the individual concerned. Whilst DBS checks are not yet mandatory for massage therapists (see note 8 below), they might be a requirement of the particular organization where massage therapy is to be offered, especially any that concerns the care of children or vulnerable adults.

BCMB often receives requests for volunteer massage therapists from charities who insist on an enhanced DBS check; for example, a women’s aid centre.

BCMB strongly recommends that all students should have a DBS check. To encourage this, students can pay to obtain a DBS check through BCMB, which is registered with the company Total CRB. Whilst the level of check is a matter for the individual student to decide, we recommend the enhanced level rather than standard.

Note that the regulatory body for massage is the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC). The CNHC holds the voluntary registers for massage therapists as directed by the Professional Standards Authority.

As the CNHC is not a regulatory body listed in subsection (3) of section 25 of the National Health Service Reform and Health Care Professions Act 2002, its registrants are not yet required to be DBS checked. However, given the recent agreement that GP’s can refer patients to CNHC registered practitioners, is it only a matter of time before this is introduced. Hence BCMB encourages its students and graduates to get ahead of the game.

BCMB

January 2016