Safe Practice Policy

NAME OF CLUB:- Unity Martial Arts

Purpose of the Policy

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all participants, instructors, and staff in our TaeKwon-Do classes are provided with a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment. This policy outlines the measures in place to promote safeguarding and well-being while minimizing risks associated with physical and emotional harm.

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Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to:

• Instructors, assistants, and volunteers.
• All students, regardless of age, gender, ability, or background.
• Parents, guardians, and spectators attending classes or events.

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Roles and Responsibilities

Instructors and Assistants

• Maintain professional boundaries at all times.
• Ensure classes are conducted in line with safeguarding and health & safety guidelines.
• Be trained in safeguarding and first aid (updated every three years).
• Follow all safeguarding reporting protocols for any concerns.

Students

• Show respect and consideration for others.
• Follow instructions to ensure personal safety and the safety of others.
• Report any concerns to the instructor or safeguarding officer.

Parents/Guardians

• Support their children’s participation by ensuring they arrive on time and with the necessary equipment.
• Notify the instructor of any medical conditions or relevant circumstances that may impact participation.
• Report any safeguarding concerns promptly.

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Safeguarding Measures

Supervision

• Classes will always have a minimum of two adults present, including at least one instructor with a valid DBS check.
• For classes with minors, parents/guardians are encouraged to remain on-site during the session.

Physical Contact

• Physical contact is limited to what is necessary for demonstrating techniques, correcting form, or administering first aid.
• Students will always be informed before any physical contact is made, and consent will be sought where appropriate.

Bullying and Harassment

• Zero tolerance for bullying, harassment, or discrimination.
• Any instances will be addressed immediately following the outlined disciplinary procedure.

Photography and Media

• No photographs or videos will be taken during classes without prior written consent from parents/guardians for minors or students themselves if over 18.
• Media consent forms must be completed and securely stored.

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Health and Safety

Venue

• The training area will be inspected regularly to ensure it meets health and safety standards.
• Clear evacuation procedures will be communicated to all participants.

Equipment

• All equipment will be checked before use to ensure it is in good condition.
• Any faulty equipment will be removed immediately and reported for replacement.

Medical Emergencies

• A fully stocked first aid kit will be available during every session.
• Instructors will maintain up-to-date first aid training.
• An emergency contact list will be maintained for all students.

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Safe Practice During Training

Warm-Ups and Cool-Downs

• All classes will begin with a thorough warm-up and conclude with a cool-down stretching period to minimize the risk of injury.
• Warm-ups are mandatory for all students to prevent injury and prepare the body for physical activity.

Head Contact

• Head contact is only permitted during controlled sparring sessions for students at advanced levels and above, with appropriate protective gear (e.g., headguards).
• No head contact is allowed for juniors or beginners unless explicitly authorized by the instructor and only under strict supervision.
• Clear guidelines on acceptable levels of contact will be communicated prior to any sparring activity.

Sparring and Pad Work

• Sparring will always be supervised by an instructor.
• Students must wear the appropriate protective gear, including gloves, shin guards, and mouthguards.

Pad work will be conducted with safety in mind, ensuring proper technique to avoid injury to the holder or striker.

Techniques

• All techniques will be taught progressively, ensuring students have mastered foundational movements before attempting advanced techniques.
• Techniques aimed at high-risk areas, such as the spine or joints, will only be practiced under controlled conditions.

Hydration and Breaks

• Regular breaks will be provided to allow students to hydrate and recover.
• Students are encouraged to bring their own water bottles and take breaks as needed.

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Reporting and Managing Concerns

• A designated safeguarding lead will be available to handle concerns.
• Any concerns about the welfare of students must be reported immediately.
• Confidentiality will be maintained except when sharing information is necessary to protect a student.

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Code of Conduct

For Instructors:

• Act as positive role models.
• Use appropriate language and behavior at all times.
• Avoid one-on-one situations with students unless absolutely necessary.

For Students:

• Respect fellow students and instructors.
• Avoid actions that could endanger themselves or others.
• Report injuries or discomfort immediately.

For Parents/Guardians:

• Support the instructor’s guidance.
• Encourage your child’s commitment to training and safe practices.
• Address concerns directly with the instructor or safeguarding officer.

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Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required due to changes in legislation or incidents that highlight the need for improvement.

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