Trinity Martial Arts & Self Defence:

Safeguarding Policy

Safeguarding Overview

At Trinity Martial Arts & Self Defence, the safety and wellbeing of children, young people and vulnerable adults is our highest priority.

We follow UK safeguarding legislation and best practice, including:

  • Children Act 1989 and 2004

  • Working Together to Safeguard Children

  • Protection of Freedoms Act 2012

  • Government Prevent Duty guidance

We are an affiliated and licensed club with BMABA, which provides independent safeguarding oversight for parents, students and instructors.

This webpage summarises our policy in a parent-friendly format. The full formal version is available by clicking below:

Quick Guide for Parents & Students

If you ever feel worried about a child, young person or vulnerable adult connected with the club:

  1. Speak to us – talk to an instructor or the Safeguarding Officer.

  2. Share what you’ve seen or heard – concerns are enough, you do not need proof.

  3. We will listen, record and act – all concerns are taken seriously.

  4. If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.

Concerns are handled sensitively and, when appropriate, confidentially.

Key Safeguarding Principles

We base our safeguarding on these core principles:

  1. The welfare of the child or vulnerable adult is paramount.

  2. Everyone has an equal right to protection.

  3. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

  4. Concerns must be acted on promptly and professionally.

Roles and Responsibilities

Club Safeguarding Officer

Name: Ed Hodgson

Role: Founder, Chief Instructor & Club Safeguarding Officer

Email: [email protected]

The CSO:

  • Receives and records safeguarding concerns.

  • Assesses risk and takes appropriate action.

  • Seeks guidance from BMABA when required.

  • Refers concerns to statutory services where necessary.

  • Ensures staff understand safeguarding responsibilities.

Independent BMABA Oversight

If you feel unable to raise a concern within the club, or believe a concern has not been handled properly, you can contact BMABA directly:

Understanding Abuse and Poor Practice

Types of Abuse

  • Physical abuse – causing injury or pain.

  • Emotional abuse – threats, humiliation, excessive criticism.

  • Sexual abuse – sexual contact or exploitation.

  • Neglect – failing to meet basic needs.

Poor Practice

  • Unsafe or inappropriate training methods.

  • Being alone with a child in a private space.

  • Inappropriate jokes or communication.

  • Failing to report concerns.

How to Report a Safeguarding Concern

If a child or young person speaks to you:

  • Listen calmly and without judgment.

  • Do not promise confidentiality.

  • Avoid leading questions.

  • Reassure them they’ve done the right thing.

Reporting steps:

  1. Email the Safeguarding Officer: [email protected]

  2. Write down what you saw or heard.

  3. If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.

Safer Recruitment and Training

  • Enhanced DBS checks for instructors and volunteers.

  • Reference and identity checks.

  • Regular safeguarding training.

  • Clear behavioural and conduct expectations.

Codes of Conduct

Instructors and Staff

  • Maintain professional boundaries.

  • Use age-appropriate training.

  • Avoid being alone with a child.

  • Report all concerns immediately.

Parents and Carers

  • Support your child positively.

  • Communicate respectfully.

  • Follow club procedures.

Students

  • Show respect to others.

  • Follow instructions carefully.

  • Never bully or harass anyone.

Online Safety and Social Media

  • No private messaging between instructors and under-18s.

  • All communication via official channels.

  • Parental consent required for photos and videos.

  • Zero tolerance for cyberbullying.

Inclusion, Equality and Reasonable Adjustments

  • Zero tolerance for discrimination or harassment.

  • Reasonable adjustments for disabilities or SEN.

  • Inclusive, respectful training environment.

Managing Allegations and Whistleblowing

  • Staff may be suspended while concerns are reviewed.

  • Concerns may be escalated to BMABA or statutory services.

  • Those who raise concerns in good faith are protected.

Policy Review

Last reviewed: 28 May 2025


Next review: within 12 months.

Contact:


Safeguarding Officer – [email protected]
BMABA – [email protected]

This page outlines the Safeguarding Policy for Trinity Martial Arts & Self Defence in Telford, covering child protection, reporting procedures, safer recruitment, online safety and BMABA oversight.

Trinity Martial Arts & Self Defence - Kids Martial Arts - Telford

Trinity Martial Arts & Self Defence

Unit 2b Matthew Webb House

High Street, Dawley, TF4 2EX

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