1. Introduction 

1.1 Redcar Tigers Martial Arts is dedicated to creating a safe and secure environment for all children and young people participating in our martial arts programs. This policy sets out our commitment to safeguarding their welfare and outlines the procedures and practices we employ to ensure their protection. 

2. Legislative Framework 

2.1 Our organisation operates in compliance with the following legislation and guidelines:

  - The Children Act 1989 and 2004

  - The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC)

  - The Education Act 2002

  - The Protection of Freedoms Act 2012

  - The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006

  - The Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015 

3. Designated Safeguarding Lead

3.1 Redcar Tigers Martial Arts will appoint a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) responsible for overseeing the implementation of child safeguarding arrangements, acting as the main point of contact regarding safeguarding concerns, and providing guidance and support to staff, volunteers, parents, and children.

4. Recruitment and Selection

4.1 All individuals who come into contact with children, including staff, volunteers, and contractors, will undergo a thorough recruitment and selection process. This includes background checks, reference checks, and enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

5. Training and Awareness

5.1 All staff and volunteers will receive comprehensive and up-to-date training on child safeguarding, recognising signs of abuse, responding to concerns, and understanding their roles and responsibilities. Training will be refreshed regularly to ensure effectiveness.

6. Procedures and Reporting

6.1 We will establish clear and accessible procedures for reporting concerns, allegations, or disclosures of abuse. Staff and volunteers are obliged to report any concerns immediately to the DSL, who will follow Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub referral guidelines as outlined by the Local Safeguarding Children Board.

6.2 A record will be kept of all concerns raised, actions taken, and outcomes. Confidentiality will be maintained in line with legal requirements, ensuring that information is shared on a need-to-know basis.

7. Code of Conduct

7.1 All staff and volunteers will adhere to a Code of Conduct that defines their expected behaviour, appropriate physical contact with children, and communication guidelines. Any breaches or concerns regarding the Code of Conduct will be addressed promptly and in accordance with our disciplinary procedures.

8. Risk Assessments

8.1 We will conduct regular risk assessments of our premises and activities to identify any potential risks to children's safety. Measures will be put in place to mitigate these risks, ensuring a safe and conducive environment.

9. Behaviour and Bullying

9.1 Redcar Tigers Martial Arts has a zero-tolerance policy regarding bullying, discrimination, and abusive behaviour. Appropriate measures will be taken to address and prevent such incidents, providing support to children affected and raising awareness of the harmful impact of such behaviour.

10. Safeguarding Partnerships

10.1 We will establish effective partnerships with parents, guardians, local authorities, and external agencies to ensure coordinated safeguarding efforts. Information sharing will be conducted in compliance with data protection laws and safeguarding procedures. Our organization will actively engage with parents and guardians, enabling their participation and involvement in safeguarding initiatives.

11. Recognising and Empowering Children

11.1 We will promote children's rights, enabling their active participation, listening, and taking into account their views when making decisions that affect them. We will foster an environment where children feel safe, respected, and empowered to express themselves.

12. Monitoring and Review

12.1 This policy will be reviewed annually or as required to ensure effectiveness, compliance with legislation, and alignment with best practices. Changes will be communicated to all staff, volunteers, parents, and relevant stakeholders.

Conclusion:

Redcar Tigers Martial Arts is fully committed to upholding the highest standards of child safeguarding, in line with current legislation and guidelines in the United Kingdom. By implementing this comprehensive Child Safeguarding Policy, we aim to create an environment where all children participating in our martial arts programs feel secure, protected, and able to flourish. We will continuously monitor and improve our safeguarding practices to ensure the well-being and welfare of all children in our care.