Safeguarding

All Level 1 club instructors have enhanced DBS clearance and receive refresher safeguarding training every 6 months.

The club’s safeguarding policy is based on that provided by Cobra Martial Arts Association (CMAA) and South Tyneside Local Authority’s Safeguarding Children, Young People and Vulnerable Adults Practice Guidance. A full copy is available for inspection upon request.

The following summarises some of the main points:

Instructors will never work alone with children, young people or vulnerable adults out of public view, and will not ask others to work with these groups in situations.
Karate is an activity which requires at least some physical contact between participants but the least physical contact possible will be used.
Classes will be designed to be fun and fair play promoted at all times.
Instructors will never raise their voice or shout at students except in an emergency.
Students should arrive for class already dressed in the Gi. Failing that, if a student needs to change prior to or after class, then they should do so in private. Parents should remain with their children.
Instructors will maintain a safe and appropriate emotional and physical distance from children, young people or vulnerable adults. It is not appropriate for participants to have an intimate relationship with children, young people or vulnerable adults who visit our premises.
Any remedial measures / sanctions that the club uses will be non-aggressive, non-stressful and non-humiliating, and will only be used as a learning aid – never as disciplinary or corrective punishment.
Instructors will not invite or allow children, young people or vulnerable adults into their homes.
Instructors will not give children, young people or vulnerable adults lifts in their vehicles except in emergencies. Any such unavoidable instances will be reported to and recorded by the club.
Instructors will never let allegations, made by anyone, go unacknowledged, unresolved or not acted upon.
Students will address instructors by their first name and not any official title e.g. . This will reduce any perceived authority/power/status imbalance, and remove barriers to full and open communication between instructors and students/parents/guardians.
Participants should be aware of the potential for misunderstanding when touching children, young people or vulnerable adults.
Physical contact is an accepted part of karate, and it should be appropriate to the situation and follow accepted guidelines. Consoling a child, young person or vulnerable adult who is upset, administering first aid or supporting a participant in an activity is acceptable and necessary behaviour.

Our instructors don't use formal titles e.g. 'Sensei'. The club operates on a first names basis.

Here are a few reasons why this is considered good practice:

Reduces Power Imbalance: Formal titles like "Sensei" can create a strong sense of hierarchy. Using first names helps reduce this, making instructors seem more approachable and less intimidating, which is especially important for vulnerable individuals.
Promotes Open Communication: When instructors use first names, it fosters a friendly and relaxed atmosphere where children and vulnerable adults feel more comfortable asking questions, voicing concerns, or reporting issues.
Supports Safeguarding: Safeguarding guidelines often emphasise creating environments where individuals feel safe and respected. Avoiding overly formal titles helps prevent a culture of blind obedience and supports transparency and accountability.
Encourages Inclusivity: Some children or vulnerable adults might find formal traditions confusing or overwhelming. Using first names creates a more accessible and inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of background or experience.
Reflects Modern Coaching Practices: Many modern sports and youth organisations have moved toward more informal and participant-centred approaches, which emphasise mutual respect and emotional safety over rigid formality and instructor status.

While respecting tradition is important, adapting language to prioritise the well-being and comfort of all participants—especially the most vulnerable—is essential in a community or instructional setting.

Designated Safeguarding Lead : Liam Healy 07359 504486

Useful Information

South Tyneside Borough Council:

The Council is made up of many departments that work with Children, Families, Parents and Carers, however if you have concerns that a child, young person or vulnerable adult is being abused or neglected, or that they may be at risk of harm, you should contact:

Children

South Tyneside Referral and Assessment Team, Tel: 0191 424 5010

Emergency Duty Team (Outside of Office Hours) Tel: 0191 456 2093

Adults

South Tyneside Adult Safeguarding Unit Tel; 0191 424 4049

Emergency Duty Team (Outside of Office Hours) Tel: 0191 456 2093

South Tyneside Designated Officer (LADO) Angela Nolan. 0191 424 4701 / 07920817896

IN AN EMERGENCY, CONTACT THE POLICE.

Radicalisation

South Tyneside Community Safety Team Tel: 0191 4247935

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