It’s no exaggeration to say that the pandemic has brought about a mental health crisis. Knowing this, Cardiff and Vale College pulled out all the stops to protect and look after their learners’ wellbeing.

In autumn 2019, the college’s wellbeing and safeguarding coordinators contacted organisations in the Cardiff area and set up monthly contextualised safeguarding meetings. Information gathered at these meetings was combined with reports about any tensions in the local area (in conjunction with the local police community cohesion team), eSafe digital monitoring reports, safeguarding meetings with the estates team and referrals from staff and learners to create an excellent understanding of current issues.

With a strong strategy already in place, the college was quick to spring into action from the very start of lockdown. While the college buildings were closed, safeguarding hubs were set up on two campuses to provide essential check-in with learners who were unsafe in their homes.

Gower College wins at the Tes FE Awards 2021

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The college partnered with Here We Flo to ensure learners were still provided with free sanitary products during lockdown, delivered straight to their homes. Violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence training was also provided to all staff so they could spot the signs and provide any necessary support.

Lead judge Vicky Duckworth said: “The submissions were outstanding, and I was very impressed and moved by such dedication to supporting learners in and out of the classroom.

“Cardiff and Vale College showed a real commitment to supporting learners and listening to the voices of their learners and their community.”