Disclaimer

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Disclaimer and Terms of Engagement  

Professional Credentials  

Mark Nicholls is a:  

- Well-being Mentor  

- Mindfulness Meditation Teacher  

- Meditation Instructor  

- Buddhist (Dharma) Practitioner  

- Buddhist (Dharma) Teacher

- Mental Health First Aider  

- Listener  

- Suicide and Self-Harm Awareness Responder ( in training) 

Mark’s work is guided by his role as a Buddhist (Dharma) practitioner/Teacher, sharing tools rooted in mindfulness, meditation, and Buddhist philosophy to help others cultivate peaceful, compassionate, and wise lives. His approach empowers individuals to identify and overcome mental, emotional, and spiritual blocks that hinder their growth.

Purpose and Scope of Services  

Purpose  

Mark’s services are designed to:  

- Teach Buddhist (Dharma) practices and philosophies for peaceful and compassionate living.  

- Provide mindfulness, meditation, and mentoring tools to overcome personal barriers.  

- Support individuals in fostering inner wisdom, balance, and clarity.  

- Help clients integrate spiritual practices into their daily lives.  

Scope  

Services include:  

1. Mindfulness Meditation Instruction: Techniques to develop relaxation, focus, and self-awareness.  

2. Buddhist (Dharma) Teachings: Insights into compassion, mindfulness, non-attachment, and equanimity.  

3. Well-Being Mentoring: Addressing life challenges and offering practical tools to promote resilience and emotional balance.  

4. Meditation Movement: Mindful physical practices that combine movement with meditation to enhance body-mind harmony.  

5. Talking Therapies Non-clinical, supportive conversations that provide space for reflection and emotional processing.  

6. Retreats and In person/Online Courses: Opportunities for deeper engagement through immersive retreats and accessible online programs.  

7. Social Media and Blog Content: Articles, videos, and insights shared via [www.MarkNicholls.org](https://marknicholls.org) and @marknicholls.meditation.  

8. Lecturer/Interviewer/Influencer: Delivering engaging lectures, conducting insightful interviews, and sharing practical wisdom on mindfulness, meditation, and Buddhist teachings through public speaking, social media platforms, and collaborations to inspire and empower diverse audiences.

These services are designed for personal and spiritual growth and are not a substitute for professional mental health or medical care.  

Disclaimer  

Non-Substitution for Professional Care 

- Services do not diagnose, treat, or cure mental health or medical conditions.  

- If you experience severe emotional distress, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts, seek immediate help from a licensed professional or crisis service.  

Role as a Buddhist (Dharma) Practitioner

As a Buddhist practitioner Mark provides:  

- Compassionate Guidance: Teaching kindness and mindfulness to cultivate inner peace and emotional balance.  

- Wisdom Development: Supporting clients in exploring impermanence, acceptance, and personal growth.  

- Practical Tools for Life: Sharing mindfulness and meditation practices to navigate challenges with clarity.  

- Identifying and Addressing Blocks: Helping clients uncover and work through mental, emotional, or spiritual barriers.  

Mark practices Vajrayana Buddhism and offers teachings in a non-denominational, accessible manner, free from proselytising or institutional affiliation.  

Use of the Terms "Healing" and "Tantra"

Healing

- Any reference to "healing" in Mark’s programs, classes, or communications refers to personal spiritual healing / your own personal devlopments  

- This process may include self-introspection, mindfulness, meditation, and philosophical reflection, but it does not imply or guarantee medical or psychological healing in any capacity what so ever

- Clients are fully responsible for their own medical care and health decisions.  

Tantra /Tantric  

- References to "tantra" relate to practices such as sound (e.g., chanting OM), visualisation (e.g., imagining a peaceful scene), and mudras (e.g., hands in prayer position).  

- These practices are offered purely for mindfulness, relaxation, or self-awareness and are not associated with any controversial interpretations of tantra.  

Suicide and Self-Harm Awareness

Mark is (training - will update when trained) as a Suicide and Self-Harm Awareness Responder, ensuring he can:  

- Recognise signs of distress, suicidal ideation, or self-harming behaviours.  

- Provide immediate support and guidance.  

- Connect individuals with appropriate crisis services or professional resources.  

Limitations Suicide and self-harm awareness response is not therapy or counselling and serves as a bridge to professional care or for Mark to identify and highlight should the behaviours be identified

Mental Health First aider

Mark Nicholls is a certified Mental Health First Aider, trained to:

- Recognise signs and symptoms of mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, stress, or trauma.

-Provide immediate support by listening non-judgmentally and offering reassurance to individuals in distress.

- Encourage appropriate professional help by guiding individuals to connect with licensed mental health professionals, counsellors, or support services.

- Promote mental health awareness by fostering a safe and supportive environment during sessions, classes, talks or workshops.

Scope of support 

As a Mental Health First Aider, Mark offers:

• Short-Term Support: Initial assistance to individuals experiencing mental health challenges until professional help is accessed.
• Crisis Management: Calm and compassionate responses to clients displaying acute distress, ensuring their immediate safety.

Limitations:

• Mental Health First Aid is not a substitute for therapy or professional mental health care.
• Mark does not diagnose mental health conditions or provide long-term therapeutic intervention.
• The role of a Mental Health First Aider is to bridge the gap between recognising a challenge and accessing professional resources.
• 
  

Mark ensures that his Mental Health First Aid skills are integrated responsibly into his mindfulness and mentoring practices, creating a compassionate and supportive space for clients.

Policies  

Eligibility  

- Group Classes Participants must be 18 years or older.  

- One-to-One Mentoring: Clients must be 21 years or older.  

Client Responsibility  

- You are fully responsible for your well-being, decisions, and actions during and after sessions.  

- You are encouraged to seek professional advice or additional resources if necessary.  

Financial Terms  

- Pricing for all services, including retreats and online courses, is listed on the website.  

- Concessions may be available for those in financial hardship, at the mentor’s discretion.

Usage of Services  

- Services are for personal development and cannot be used for unauthorised purposes, such as competitor analysis or research, without written consent.  

- All services , communications and content are for your entertainment only 

Termination of Services  

- Mark reserves the right to terminate sessions or agreements at his discretion.  

- Refunds will be provided for unused time in cases where services are terminated.  

Meditation and Buddhist (Dharma) Philosophy  

Meditation Practices Offered  

- Mindfulness Meditation: Developing present-moment awareness.  

- Breath Awareness Meditation: Using the breath to anchor focus and reduce stress.  

- Loving-Kindness Meditation (Metta): Cultivating compassion for oneself and others.  

- Visualization Meditation Using mental imagery to evoke calm and positivity.  

- Mantra Meditation: Repeating sounds or affirmations to quiet the mind and focus energy.  

Application of Buddhist (Dharma) Teachings  

- Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path: Practical guidance on understanding and alleviating suffering.  

- Impermanence and Non-Attachment: Teaching acceptance of life’s changes to reduce anxiety and reactivity.  

- Compassion and Equanimity: Tools for responding to challenges with kindness and balance.  

- Mindfulness in Daily Life: Techniques for integrating awareness into routine actions and decisions.  

Retreats, Online Courses, and Social Media  

Retreats  

- Immersive, in-person experiences to deepen meditation and mindfulness practices in serene environments.  

- Retreats focus on guided meditations, movement practices, and workshops on Buddhist philosophy and Dharma teachings.  

Online Courses  

- Flexible programs designed to develop mindfulness, meditation, and well-being skills at your own pace.  

- Topics include beginner meditation, advanced techniques, and integrating mindfulness into everyday life.  

Social Media and Blog Content  

- Regular posts, videos, and articles on mindfulness, meditation, and Buddhist principles.  

- Visit [www.MarkNicholls.org](https://marknicholls.org) or follow @marknicholls.meditation for updates and inspiration.  

Mental Health Support and Crisis Protocol  

Mental Health First Aid  

Mark’s certification as a Mental Health First Aider ensures:  

- Recognition of signs of distress and mental health challenges.  

- A safe, supportive space for sharing concerns.  

- Guidance to connect clients with professional resources.  

Crisis Protocol for Suicide and Self-Harm Awareness  

If a client discloses suicidal ideation, self-harm, or harm to others:  

1. Immediate safety measures will be taken, including contacting crisis services or emergency responders if necessary.  

2. Confidentiality will be breached only to the extent necessary to ensure safety and well-being.  

Clients are encouraged to disclose any ongoing mental health conditions before sessions to ensure appropriate support, risk assessment or suitability to practice  

Collaborative Work with Partner  

Mark works closely with his partner, Susan a qualified Yoga Teacher (RYT 200), to provide a holistic approach to well-being. Together, they create environments where mindfulness, meditation, and yoga come together to support personal growth, relaxation, and balance.  

How They Work Together  

- Shared Classes and Events: Mark and Susan often collaborate to offer sessions that combine meditation and yoga, creating a seamless experience of mind-body connection.  

- Retreats and Workshops: They jointly organise retreats and workshops where participants can immerse themselves in a blend of yoga, meditation, and mindfulness practices.  

- Integrated Philosophy: Their approach incorporates the complementary teachings of mindfulness, meditation, movement, and yoga to promote inner peace and physical vitality.  

Individual Expertise in a Shared Environment  

While they often work together, Mark and Susan maintain their individual specialisations:  

- Mark focuses on Buddhist (Dharma) teachings, mindfulness/ meditation, and well-being mentoring.  

- Susan brings her expertise as a Yoga Teacher, leading participants through physical postures, breathing techniques, and mindful movement.  

A Partnership in Well-Being  

As a couple, Mark and Susan offer a supportive, collaborative, and inclusive environment for personal transformation. Their combined skills ensure a well-rounded experience for individuals seeking balance, resilience, and inner peace, as Mark Nicholls yoga & Meditation or Mark Nicholls Meditation

Whether working independently or together, their shared vision is to empower clients to lead healthier, more mindful lives.

Client Agreement  

By engaging with Mark Nicholls, you confirm that:  

1. You have read, understood, and agreed to this disclaimer and terms of service.  

2. You accept full responsibility for your well-being, decisions, and actions during and after sessions.  

3. You acknowledge that services provided are not a substitute for professional mental health or medical care.  

4. You understand that confidentiality is subject to limitations for safety and legal requirements.  

5. You agree not to use sessions or materials for unauthorised purposes.  

6. You release Mark from any legal claims arising from services provided.  

Policies and Disclaimers

Safeguarding and Vulnerable Clients  

Mark Nicholls is committed to safeguarding the welfare of all clients, particularly vulnerable adults and individuals with mental health challenges.  

Safeguarding Policy  

1. Age Restrictions:  

- Group classes are open to individuals aged 18 years or older.  

- One-to-one mentoring sessions are available to clients aged 21 years or older.  

2. Suitability Assessments: 

- Before engaging with services, clients may be asked to disclose any ongoing mental health conditions to determine suitability.  

- If a client’s needs exceed the scope of the services provided, Mark will refer them to an appropriate professional or crisis service.  

3. Duty of Care

- Confidentiality will be maintained except in cases where there is a risk of harm to the client or others.  

- Mark is trained as a Mental Health First Aider and Suicide and Self-Harm Awareness Responder, ensuring immediate support is provided when necessary.  

4. Reporting Concerns:  

- Any concerns about abuse or neglect involving vulnerable adults will be reported to the appropriate authorities in accordance with UK law.  

Medical and Mental Health Disclaimer  

1. Non-Substitution for Professional Care:  

- Services offered are not a substitute for professional medical, psychiatric, or therapeutic care.  

- Clients experiencing severe emotional distress, suicidal ideation, or self-harm are encouraged to seek immediate help from a licensed medical professional or crisis service.  

2. Licensing and Scope:  

- Mark Nicholls and/or Susan Kind is not licensed to diagnose or treat medical or mental health conditions.  

- All services are intended for personal development and spiritual growth, not for clinical purposes.  

Limitation of Liability  

1. General Limitation:  

- Mark Nicholls and any associated individuals or entities will not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages resulting from the use of services, including classes, retreats, mentoring, or online courses.  

2. Client Responsibility:  

- Clients are fully responsible for their well-being, decisions, and actions during and after sessions.  

3. Extent of Liability:  

- Any liability will be limited to the amount paid for the specific service in question.  

Online and Distance Services  

1. Compliance with Consumer Contracts Regulations:  

- Clients purchasing services online (e.g., courses, classes, or mentoring sessions) have the right to cancel within 14 days of purchase.  

- Cancellations and refunds must be requested in writing via email, and refunds will be processed within 14 days of approval.  

2. Cancellation and Refund Policy:  

- Online classes or mentoring sessions must be cancelled at least 24 hours in advance to qualify for a refund or rescheduling.  

- Digital course materials are non-refundable once accessed or downloaded.  

3. Technology and Access:  

- Clients are responsible for ensuring a stable internet connection for online sessions. Technical failures on the client’s side will not warrant a refund.  

Health and Safety  

1. Risk Assessments:  

- Venues for in-person retreats and classes are regularly assessed for safety and accessibility.  

- Clients will be informed of any specific requirements or risks associated with activities.  

2. Emergency Protocols:  

- Emergency contact numbers and evacuation procedures will be clearly communicated during retreats and workshops.  

Advertising Standards  

1. Compliance with UK ASA Guidelines:  

- All advertising, including website content, social media posts, and promotional materials, adheres to the UK Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) guidelines.  

- Claims about services, including benefits of mindfulness or meditation, will not be misleading or exaggerated.  

- References to "healing" refer strictly to personal spiritual growth and not medical or psychological outcomes.  

Intellectual Property  

1. Content Ownership:  

- All content created by Mark Nicholls, including blog articles, online courses, guided meditations, and retreat materials, is protected under copyright law.  

- Clients may not reproduce, distribute, or share materials without explicit written permission.  

2. Use of Materials:  

- Materials are for personal use and for your entertainment only and may not be used for commercial purposes or competitor analysis.  

Collaborative Work  

Mark works closely with his partner, Susan, a qualified Yoga Teacher (RYT 200), to deliver holistic well-being experiences.  and from time to time others

1. Collaboration Scope:  

- Mark and Susan often co-facilitate workshops, retreats, and group classes, integrating mindfulness, meditation, and yoga practices.  

- While they operate as a team during these events, each retains professional responsibility for their respective services.  

2. Shared Responsibilities:  

- Both Mark and Susan ensure the safety, well-being, and privacy of all participants during joint sessions.  

Emergency Situations  

1. In-Person Events:  

- Clear emergency protocols, including evacuation plans, will be provided to participants at the start of all retreats or workshops.  

- Mark or Susan will act as the designated point of contact in case of an emergency.  

2. Health Emergencies:  

- In the event of a medical emergency during a session, first aid will be administered if appropriate, and emergency services will be contacted.  

Code of Conduct  

1. Client Behaviour:  

- Clients are expected to behave respectfully toward facilitators and fellow participants. Disruptive or inappropriate behaviour may result in removal from the session without a refund.  

2. Punctuality:  

- Clients are encouraged to arrive on time for all sessions, as late arrivals may disrupt the flow of the event.  

3. Confidentiality:  

- Clients are expected to respect the privacy of others, particularly during group sessions or retreats, by not sharing personal details disclosed in confidence.  

For any further clarification or to request additional policies, please contact Mark Nicholls via [www.MarkNicholls.org](https://marknicholls.org).

Acknowledgement  

By signing below, you acknowledge and agree to the terms outlined above.  

Client Name: ___________________________  

Client Signature: ______________________  

Date: _________________________________  

Mark Nicholls  

© 2019–2025  

For more information, visit: [www.MarkNicholls.org](https://marknicholls.org).  

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