The NWG team have written a series of articles to support National Child Exploitation Awareness day 2022 (#CEADay22) – 18th March. Today we hear from Jo Aldridge NWG Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts Project Manager

The Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts was introduced in 2018 to help clubs and organisations in the sector demonstrate to parents, schools, and leisure establishments that they have good safeguarding standards.

Just this week I have spoken with the lead instructor of a club where a concern has been raised with the police over a junior instructor in his club. The words “you always think it isn’t going to happen to you” were shared with me and it reminded me why this project exists.

It’s important that martial clubs don’t just assume “times have changed” or “it won’t ever happen to me” …. The team at the Safeguarding Code can help clubs ensure that their safeguarding process is robust, transparent, and effective. The service is free, and we can support clubs at all levels in England. If you’re starting from nothing we won’t judge. We’re here to help guide and advise, offer free template policies, and help you measure your procedures so that if a concern is raised you can manage it professionally and ensure your members, workforce and reputation are protected.

If your club is affiliated with a recognized National Governing Body, you should be getting great support already, but if you’re not or you’re not sure, please drop us an email at [email protected] or go to www.safeguardingcode.com to learn more and get started. If you’re a parent already involved with a club download this leaflet and take it to your club to encourage them to apply. If you’re looking for a club, go to our map and search over 1400 venues that are certified with us already!

Remember safeguarding isn’t someone else’s burden – it’s everyone’s responsibility.

Jo Aldridge

Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts Project Manager