What is safeguarding and why does it matter at a martial arts club?

Safeguarding means protecting children and vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect, and harm. At Exeter Martial Arts, close physical contact is part of training, so we take our duty of care especially seriously. Every member deserves to feel safe.

Who is the Club Welfare Officer?

Dr Helen Catterick is our Club Welfare Officer. She is the first point of contact for any welfare or safeguarding concern at Exeter Martial Arts. You can reach her on 07554 562797 or at helen@exetermartialarts.co.uk.

Are instructors DBS checked?

Yes. All instructors at Exeter Martial Arts who work with children or vulnerable adults hold current DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) clearance and are appropriately qualified through the BJJA GB.

What should I do if I have a safeguarding concern?

Contact our Club Welfare Officer Helen Catterick directly. If your concern involves a club official, contact the BJJA GB Safeguarding Officers. In any emergency, always call 999 first. You do not need anyone's permission to report a concern.

Is the club affiliated to a national governing body?

Yes. Exeter Martial Arts is affiliated to the BJJA GB (British Jiu Jitsu Association Governing Body) and is proud to hold Centre of Excellence status for the South West. The BJJA GB provides national safeguarding oversight and policy.

Where can I find the safeguarding code for parents?

The Safeguarding Code for parents is available at safeguardingcode.com/parents. It provides guidance on keeping children safe in sport and what to expect from coaches and clubs.

HERO IMAGE PLACEHOLDER — Jiu Jitsu action shot

Safeguarding & Welfare

RISK ASSESSMENT & SAFEGUARDING

The safety and welfare of all our members is our highest priority. Exeter Martial Arts is committed to creating a safe, inclusive environment for everyone who trains with us.

Club Welfare Officer

DR HELEN CATTERICK

Dr Helen Cattericj - The safety and welfare of all our members is our highest priority. Exeter Martial Arts is committed to creating a safe, inclusive environment for everyone who trains with us.

Helen is our Club Welfare Officer and the first point of contact for any safeguarding concerns at Exeter Martial Arts. If you have a concern about the welfare of a child or adult, please contact Helen directly in confidence.

07554 562797

info@exetermartialarts.co.uk

National Safeguarding

BJJA GB SAFEGUARDING OFFICERS

As a BJJA GB Centre of Excellence, we are supported by the governing body's national safeguarding team.

If your concern relates to a club official or instructor, please contact the BJJA GB Safeguarding Officers directly.

Mark & Claire Fizgerald

07708 498444

info@exetermartialarts.co.uk

SafeGuarding

Protection Policy

Student - Parent - Instructor Charter

View Document

Safe Practice

View Document

Common Questions

FAQs

Does Exeter Martial Arts have a safeguarding policy?

Yes. We have a formal safeguarding policy covering the welfare of children and vulnerable adults at every class. It's reviewed regularly and all instructors are trained in it.

Are your instructors DBS checked?

Yes. All instructors who work with children or vulnerable adults hold an enhanced DBS check, renewed in line with governing body requirements.

What risk assessments are in place for classes?

Every class and activity we run has a written risk assessment covering the training space, equipment and techniques taught, reviewed regularly to reflect how each class actually runs.

How do I report a safeguarding concern?

If you have any concern about the welfare of a child or vulnerable adult, please contact us directly on 01392 663000 or info@exetermartialarts.co.uk as soon as possible so it can be addressed properly.

Is the club insured?

Yes. Exeter Martial Arts holds appropriate public liability and instructor insurance, arranged through our governing bodies. Details are available on request.

Who do I contact about safeguarding or welfare policies?

Our designated safeguarding lead handles all welfare matters. Call us on 01392 663000 or email info@exetermartialarts.co.uk and we'll put you in touch directly.