We need to update our understanding of safeguarding as it is becoming blatantly obvious that training and social structures are out of date and biased.

Statistics are used to convey and inform policy which blinds the very structures that are established to protect such as the law.

An example of this is honour based abuse being most relevant to individuals who may be at risk if they are from Turkish, Kurdish, Afghani, South Asian, African, Middle Eastern, South & Eastern European or traveller communities.  I find this incredible as we know that middle class white Americans and English will dominate and control family members for stepping outside of ‘expected’ belief systems or political ideology. We see how women are controlled and manipulated to live certain lifestyles that if they chose to act differently they would not be accepted with consequences for deviating from their parters or families exceptions.

It is time we recognise that all cultures and some more than others are abusive and controlling. We need to open our eyes and stop being told it’s them not us because actually all humans can be loving, accepting and supportive. So lets try to be and perhaps that starts with us and lets begin to challenge, provide solutions and be part of the change needed to stop abuse… That usually means be prepared to be involved and find help.

If you have any concern whilst in or after a Circle or training speak to the facilitator after via email or call and feel free to follow this up to reassure yourself that something has been done and that you feel comfortable with the outcome.