Safeguarding Checklist for Yoga Teachers: Responding to a Safeguarding Concern
Every yoga teacher has a responsibility to protect students’ wellbeing and respond effectively to safeguarding concerns. This checklist provides a clear, step-by-step process for handling potential signs of abuse, harm, or neglect in yoga settings, ensuring you act professionally and in line with best safeguarding practices.
When to Use This
Use this safeguarding checklist if you notice changes in a student’s behaviour or physical appearance, receive a disclosure from a student, parent, or colleague, or observe anything that raises a safeguarding concern, whether you’re teaching in person, online, or in a community setting.
Checklist
If you encounter a safeguarding concern in your role as a yoga teacher, follow these essential steps:
- Recognise the Signs:
Be alert to changes in behaviour, physical signs, or direct disclosures that could indicate abuse, neglect, or harm. - Stay Calm and Listen:
Remain calm. Listen carefully and supportively if someone discloses a concern. Do not make promises of secrecy; explain that you may need to share the information for their safety. - Record the Facts:
Make a timely, accurate, and objective record of what was said or observed, using the individual’s own words when possible. - Do Not Investigate:
Do not attempt to investigate, question, or confront anyone involved. Your role is to report, not to diagnose or solve the issue. - Report the Concern:
Report your concern immediately in accordance with your gym or studio’s safeguarding policy or the relevant authority. If you work on your own - Referral:
If immediate danger is suspected, escalate your concerns to your local police or law enforcement agency. - Preserve Evidence:
Keep any physical evidence safe and unaltered. Attach your written record to your report if required. - Maintain Confidentiality:
Share sensitive information only with those who need to know in order to protect the person at risk. - Seek Support:
If you are affected by the situation, seek support from a trusted colleague, supervisor, or professional support service.
Action Steps
- Review your safeguarding policy and reporting procedure regularly.
- Keep this checklist accessible in your teaching or administrative space.
- If a concern arises, calmly follow each step above in the order listed.
- Securely document and store any records or evidence.
- Access personal support if the situation affects your wellbeing.
Further Reading
These resources are designed to help yoga and wellness professionals understand safeguarding, safety and professional practice considerations. YogaPros does not investigate complaints, provide safeguarding services or act as a regulatory body. If there is an immediate risk of harm, contact the appropriate emergency services or statutory authority.