1. Introduction & Aims

Aquila Taekwondo is committed to ensuring that all children, young people, and adults at risk can enjoy sport in a safe and supportive environment. We promote the wellbeing and welfare of all participants by following the national guidance for safeguarding in sport, including the Children Act 1989 and 2004, Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023), and the Care Act 2014.

This policy sets out our safeguarding responsibilities and the procedures we follow to protect those in our care.

2. Scope

This policy applies to everyone involved in Aquila Taekwondo, including coaches, volunteers, athletes, parents, carers, and visitors. It covers safeguarding procedures for:

• Children: anyone under the age of 18

• Adults at Risk: individuals aged 18+ who may be unable to protect themselves from harm or exploitation due to age, disability, mental or physical health, or other factors

When delivering sessions within schools, we also follow the school's safeguarding procedures and the national Keeping Children Safe in Education guidelines.

3. Safeguarding Principles

We operate in line with the national CPSU (Child Protection in Sport Unit) standards and core safeguarding principles:

• Empowerment – People are supported and encouraged to make their own decisions.

• Prevention – It’s better to take action before harm occurs.

• Proportionality – The response should be appropriate to the level of risk.

• Protection – Support for those in greatest need.

• Partnership – Working with others to safeguard.

• Accountability – Being transparent and responsible in safeguarding practices.

4. Recognising Abuse

All staff and volunteers must be aware of the potential signs of abuse. Abuse may be:

• Physical – e.g. hitting, slapping, misuse of restraints, excessive physical pressure in training

• Emotional – e.g. belittling, threats, humiliation, pressure to win

• Sexual – e.g. sexual assault, grooming, inappropriate contact or behaviour

• Neglect – e.g. failure to meet basic needs like food, care, equipment

• Discriminatory – e.g. harassment based on race, gender, disability, sexual orientation

• Financial (Adults at Risk) – e.g. exploitation, fraud, misuse of property

• Self-Neglect (Adults at Risk) – e.g. refusing care or putting oneself at risk

If a child or adult shows changes in behaviour, unexplained injuries, or distress, this may be a sign of abuse and must be reported.

5. Safeguarding Responsibilities

• Safeguarding Lead / Club Welfare Officer (CWO):
  Georgina Ingram
  management@aquilataekwondo.com
  Responsible for responding to safeguarding concerns and ensuring policy compliance.

• Coaches & Volunteers:
  All must complete enhanced DBS checks, safeguarding and Prevent training, and adhere to the Aquila Taekwondo Code of Conduct.

• Parents & Carers:
  Expected to support a safe environment and raise concerns if they arise.

• All Members:
  Can speak to any of the coaching team or the Safeguarding Lead at Aquila to report concerns.

6. Reporting Concerns

If a child or adult is in immediate danger, contact the police on 999.

Otherwise, follow this process:

1. Report the concern to the Club Welfare Officer in person or by email.

2. Complete a Safeguarding Report Form – available from Aquila Taekwondo or by request.

3. Do not investigate the concern yourself – your role is to record and report.

4. All concerns are taken seriously and handled in line with confidentiality and UK GDPR.

7. Whistleblowing

If you believe that someone is being harmed or at risk – even if you're unsure – you must speak up. Whistleblowers will be protected and treated with respect. Reports can be made directly to the Safeguarding Lead.

8. Safer Recruitment

Aquila Taekwondo ensures all staff and volunteers:

• Are appropriately vetted with DBS checks

• Undergo safeguarding training

• Are provided with clear role descriptions

• Receive supervision and guidance as needed

9. Code of Conduct

All adults working with children or adults at risk must:

• Behave respectfully and professionally at all times

• Avoid one-on-one situations unless necessary and in public view

• Never use degrading, aggressive or sexualised language

• Never share a room, lift, or accommodation unless pre-agreed with consent

• Avoid unnecessary physical contact and respect personal space

10. Information Sharing & Confidentiality

• Information is only shared on a need-to-know basis.

• All data is handled in accordance with the Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR.

• If a safeguarding concern requires action to protect someone from harm, confidentiality may be overridden.

11. External Safeguarding Support Contacts

In case you cannot speak to Aquila staff, the following national helplines are available:

• NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000

• Childline (for children): 0800 1111

• Ann Craft Trust (Adults at Risk): 0115 951 5400

• Police: 999 (emergency) / 101 (non-emergency)

12. Monitoring & Review

This policy is reviewed annually or after any significant safeguarding incident. It will be updated in accordance with changes to legislation or guidance.

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 Last Reviewed: 4th September 2024 // Next Review Due: 3rd September 2025

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By following this policy, Aquila Taekwondo ensures a safe and supportive environment for all members.