FAQs
Here are the answers to some common questions about BSConcern
Who is BSConcern for?
BSConcern is for:
- ex-boarders;
- family and friends of ex-boarders;
- current boarders;
- parents of prospective boarders;
- care professionals with an interest in ex-boarder clients; and
- anyone who is curious about the lasting effects of boarding school.
It can be especially useful for partners of ex-boarders, helping them learn about the impact of boarding on their relationship.
What does BSConcern do?
BSConcern helps ex-boarders understand and recover from their boarding experience and provides information for current boarders, their friends and family and those considering boarding for their children. It does so through conferences, newsletters, information, and responding personally to any and every enquiry.
What professional qualifications do BSConcern responders have?
The BSConcern volunteers who respond to enquiries about trauma suffered by ex-boarders are practising or retired accredited psychotherapists or counsellors.
What can BSConcern not do, and who can it not help?
BSConcern does not make recommendations – any decision to act on a suggestion made by BSConcern is the responsibility of the recipient. BSConcern does not provide therapy or counselling, but it signposts people towards resources and professionals who can help. BSConcern is unable to help with cases of sexual abuse, but will suggest organisations and individuals who can.
What is BSConcern’s position on counselling and psychotherapy?
For BSConcern, client safety is paramount: and, we believe that signposting to professional therapeutic bodies (e.g. UKCP or BACP) is the best way to protect former boarders on their healing journey. Counsellors and therapists who are members of these organisations are bound by a professional code of conduct; are obliged to operate and deliver their services within robust ethical frameworks; and are accountable to their supervisor and the complaints procedure of their particular organisation. BSConcern suggests working with counsellors and psychotherapists who have had specialist training in work with former boarders (e.g. UMOT training run by Nick Duffell).
Where does BSConcern operate?
BSConcern is based in the UK, but supports people worldwide.
What is the legal status of BSConcern?
Boarding School Concern (BSConcern) is a British company limited by guarantee, i.e. a not-for-profit company that has no shareholders. It is not a registered charity, but operates in a charitable way. Any income – whether from events, sale of books or donations – is used for the sole purpose of staging conferences, providing individual bursaries for therapies and participation, or financial support to organisations that share its agenda and aims. All its directors give their time as volunteers, without remuneration.
Why doesn’t BSConcern have a phone number?
BSConcern has no office of its own. It is operated by a number of volunteer directors, and contact is best made by e-mail so that the person who can be of most help can respond. It replies promptly to every enquiry.
What is BSConcern’s privacy policy?
BSConcern is committed to protecting and respecting your privacy. It abides by a privacy policy according to the principles of UK GDPR. See here.