The Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts can be achieved by governing bodies, associations and organisations. It can also be achieved by clubs or by instructors, coaches and teachers outside of a club structure.
If you're affiliated to the British Judo Association (BJA), please contact the BJA to apply for certification with the Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts.
For the British Taekwondo Council (BTC), clubs don't need to apply to the Safeguarding Code, however clubs are invited to apply for the Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts via the British Taekwondo Council if they so wish. The BTC will apply to the Safeguarding Code on behalf of the club.
If you're affiliated to British Taekwondo (BT), please register and apply. Although applying for the Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts isn't a mandatory requirement for BT clubs, it's strongly advised by BT.
If you're affiliated to the British Martial Arts & Boxing Association (BMABA) and you've achieved the free Club Colours Award, you don't need to apply to the Safeguarding Code, as it will be automatically issued to you.
All other organisations, associations, clubs, private companies and sole trading instructors/coaches/teachers involved in martial arts can work towards the Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts.
The Code covers five broad areas:
- Policy: Having a comprehensive safeguarding policy in place that’s been updated in the last three years
- Procedures/systems: Covering areas such as reporting concern, through to recruitment of staff and volunteers
- Practices: Covering codes of conduct for children, coaches and parents through to practical guidance on the use of social media
- Education and training: Ensuring that coaches are appropriately qualified and have undertaken safeguarding training
- Implementing and monitoring: Ensuring that policies are reviewed regularly and that risk assessments are in place.
To find out more and to register and start working towards the code, visit the Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts website.