VIA is brought to you by Denman College, a linked charity of the National Federation of Women’s Institutes (NFWI) and therefore operates in accordance with all NFWI policies and procedures.
At VIA, everyone is welcome, regardless of gender, age, location, background, or digital confidence. Our online learning spaces are built on curiosity, generosity, and mutual respect, and we expect all learners, Hosts, and staff to communicate thoughtfully, listen openly, and treat one another with kindness and patience in all online interactions. We recognise that people join us with different experiences, learning styles, and levels of confidence using technology, and we ask everyone to help create a safe, supportive, and inclusive online environment where everyone can learn together.
VIA is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive online learning environment for all.
VIA accounts may only be created by individuals aged 18 or over. Learners under the age of 18 may access VIA content only when accompanied and supervised by a responsible adult account holder. Under-18s are not permitted to create individual VIA accounts. VIA does not collect or store personal data relating directly to learners under the age of 18.
When learners under the age of 18 are present, the responsible adult account holder must remain present and supervise the learner for the full duration of the session. Responsibility for supervision rests with the accompanying adult at all times.
All Hosts, learners, staff, and participants are expected to:
Private or one-to-one communication between Hosts and learners under-18, outside official VIA channels, is not permitted (please refer to the NFWI Code of Conduct).
The majority of live courses are recorded and available to book through the Recorded Courses category. Where learners under the age of 18 are present, it is the responsibility of the adult account holder to ensure reasonable steps are taken to protect their privacy, such as, but not limited to, keeping cameras switched off during recording.
Any safeguarding concerns, including concerns about conduct, behaviour, or safety, must be reported promptly through VIA’s designated reporting channels, by contacting: safeguardingofficer@nfwi.org.uk. All safeguarding concerns are reviewed and managed in line with the NFWI Safeguarding Policy, with oversight from the NFWI Learning & Development team and Safeguarding Lead.
This safeguarding policy aligns with the NFWI Safeguarding Policy and is reviewed regularly to ensure ongoing compliance with UK safeguarding guidance and best practice.
VIA encourages the positive and responsible use of social media as a way to share learning, ideas, and community. When posting or commenting on social media in connection with VIA, Denman College or the NFWI, the same standards of professionalism, respect, and care apply as they do in any public setting. We recognise that personal and professional boundaries online can sometimes feel unclear, particularly when discussing VIA-related activity, and we ask everyone involved to be mindful of how their contributions may be perceived. These guidelines help ensure that social media interactions reflect VIA’s values and support a safe, respectful, and inclusive community.
VIA is committed to upholding high ethical standards in the delivery of its online learning activities. These standards guide how we design, deliver, and support our learning programmes, and apply to all staff, Hosts, and partners involved in VIA. They inform professional decision-making, shape our relationships with external partners and suppliers, and ensure that our online learning environment is fair, transparent, and aligned with VIA’s values. By working ethically and responsibly, we aim to build trust and provide a positive learning experience for everyone involved.
