Wellbeing Framework | Jamyang London Buddhist Centre
Jamyang Wellbeing Framework

How we care for one another

At Jamyang, we believe a thriving community is one where everyone feels heard, valued, and safe. This framework sets out how we raise concerns, resolve disagreements, and repair harm with compassion and clarity.

Let us help you find the right path

It can be hard to know how to name what you’re experiencing. Answer a couple of questions and we’ll guide you to the right starting point.

What kind of situation is this?

These three categories help us respond in the way that best supports you. You do not need to decide which one fits before reaching out, these are simply a guide.

Concern

About behaviour, communication, a decision, or an experience that has caused distress, confusion, or harm. It doesn’t necessarily mean someone has done something wrong, it may be something that can be resolved through a conversation, clarification, or an apology.

For example Feeling unheard or excluded, a hurtful comment, confusion about boundaries, or a misunderstanding that has caused upset.

Complaint

A more formal expression of harm or unfair treatment. Typically involves repeated or serious issues that cannot be resolved through listening or informal conversation alone.

For example Abuse of power or authority, discrimination or harassment, or a breach of community agreements.

Safeguarding concern

Arises when there is a risk of harm to a child, young person, or vulnerable adult. This includes any form of abuse, physical, emotional, sexual, financial, or neglect, as well as situations involving exploitation or coercive control.

Always You do not need to be certain that abuse has occurred. If something doesn’t feel right, please reach out.

Signs of a safeguarding concern

Trust your instincts. Any of the following may be a reason to reach out to a safeguarding officer.

  • Someone seems frightened of a particular person or reluctant to be alone with them
  • Unexplained injuries, changes in behaviour, or signs of distress
  • Someone being pressured, controlled, or isolated by another person
  • A child or vulnerable adult being left unsupervised or in unsafe conditions
  • Financial pressure, manipulation, or exploitation of a vulnerable person
  • Inappropriate boundaries between someone in a position of trust and a more vulnerable person

A stepped approach, held with care

At every stage, the process is confidential and compassionate. You can stop, ask questions, or request support at any time.

1
Step One

A courageous conversation

Wherever possible, we encourage you to speak directly with the person involved. We know this can feel daunting, and it takes real courage. Non violent communication (NVC) is an approach that can help you express what you’re feeling and what you need, without blame or judgement.

The core idea is simple: describe what happened, say how it made you feel, identify the need behind that feeling, and make a clear request.

Instead of “You never listen to me,”
try “When I shared my idea and didn’t get a response, I felt unseen. I’d love it if we could make space to hear each other out.”

If you’re unsure how to approach this, or if a direct conversation doesn’t feel safe or appropriate, our People and Community Manager is available to guide you.

2
Step Two

A listening space

If a direct conversation hasn’t resolved things, or isn’t possible, the next step is a Listening Space. This is a confidential, one to one meeting (in person or online) with our People and Community Manager.

The Listening Space is not about determining who is right or wrong. It’s about helping you feel heard, clarifying what has happened, and understanding your options going forward. We will actively check for any accessibility needs, including language, disability, and cultural considerations.

This step is required before any further action is taken.

3
Step Three

Resolution and repair

Depending on what emerges from the Listening Space, we may offer one of the following:

Facilitated conversation

A light touch, structured dialogue to help clarify misunderstandings and support respectful communication. Best suited to single incidents or peer level disagreements.

Mediation

A more formal process for ongoing or complex conflicts, especially where power dynamics are present. An external mediator may be brought in where needed.

Restorative circle

A space for repair and healing when harm has been acknowledged and both parties are willing to work towards restoration. Focuses on impact, responsibility, and learning.

4
Step Four

Formal complaint

If the matter is serious or cannot be resolved through the steps above, you may submit a formal complaint in writing. We will provide support to help you do this if needed.

We will acknowledge your complaint as soon as possible and provide a clear outline of next steps, timelines, and a named contact person. Any investigation will be proportionate and focused on patterns, impact, and accountability.

We are committed to repair

Possible outcomes include recommendations for change, additional training, role adjustments, and more. Repair may include an acknowledgement of harm, facilitated closure conversations, and commitments to change.

Even after a process concludes, wellbeing support remains available to you.

We want you to feel safe raising concerns at any time

General concerns and questions

People and Community

For concerns, questions, or to request a Listening Space.

people@jamyang.co.uk →
Safeguarding concerns

Safeguarding Officers

Ven. Drolma and Francesca Sanchez. Reach out if you have a safeguarding concern, even if you are not certain.

safeguardingofficer@jamyang.co.uk →

You are not alone. We are here to listen.