Safeguarding

Giokick Martial Arts acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and is committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice.

Our safeguarding policy recognises that the welfare and interests of children are paramount in all circumstances. It aims to ensure that regardless of age, ability or disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation, socio-economic background, all children:

  • have a positive and enjoyable experience of sport at Giokick Martial Arts in a safe and child centred environment.
  • are protected from abuse whilst participating in Giokick’s Martial Arts curriculum or outside of the activity.

We firmly believe that martial arts training presents a positive opportunity for all to learn self defence, improve their self confidence and develop as an individual. Everyone who participates is entitled to do so in a safe, fair, professional environment. Accordingly, Giokick and lead instructors have a moral and legal responsibility to ensure that, when given responsibility for young persons below the age of 18 or vulnerable adults, the highest standards of professionalism and care are exercised at all times.

Giokick Martial Arts acknowledges that some children can be particularly vulnerable to abuse and we accept the responsibility to take reasonable and appropriate steps to ensure their welfare.







OUR POLICY

As part of our safeguarding policy Giokick will:

  • Promote and prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children and adults.
  • Ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities in respect of safeguarding and is provided with appropriate learning opportunities to recognise, identify and respond to signs of abuse, neglect and other safeguarding concerns relating to children and adults.
  • Ensure appropriate action is taken in the event of incidents/concerns of abuse and support provided to the individual/s who raise or disclose the concern.
  • Ensure that confidential, detailed and accurate records of all safeguarding concerns are maintained and securely stored.
  • Prevent the employment of unsuitable individuals.
  • Ensure robust safeguarding arrangements and procedures are in operation.
  • Our policy and procedures will be widely promoted to all our members and are mandatory for everyone involved in Giokick Martial Arts. Failure to comply with the policy and procedures will be addressed without delay and may ultimately result in dismissal/exclusion from the organisation. To see our full safeguarding policy and procedures or for further information, contact Kellie at info@giokickmartialarts.co.uk.








ABUSE


What is abuse?

Forms of Abuse include:

  • Physical Abuse: Any instance of physical harm or violence that causes bodily injury, pain, or impairment.
  • Emotional or Psychological Abuse: Behaviours or actions that undermine an individual's self-esteem, emotional well-being, or sense of worth, such as verbal threats, intimidation, manipulation, and constant criticism.
  • Sexual Abuse: Unwanted sexual activity or behaviour imposed on individuals without their consent, including sexual assault, rape, molestation, harassment, and exploitation.
  • Neglect: The failure to provide necessary care, support, and supervision required for an individual's well-being, including neglect of basic needs like food, shelter, clothing, medical care, education, and emotional support.
  • Financial or Material Abuse: The misuse or exploitation of an individual's financial resources or assets for personal gain, including theft, fraud, coercion, manipulation, or withholding of financial resources.
  • Spiritual or Religious Abuse: Using religious or spiritual beliefs to manipulate, control, or exploit individuals, including coercion to adhere to certain beliefs, practices, or rituals against one's will.
  • Cyber Abuse: Harassment, threats, stalking, bullying, or exploitation conducted through digital platforms such as social media, email, text messages, and online forums.





Key points of contact:-

If you are concerned about the welfare of a child or young person you can contact one of the following:-

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Mrs Kellie Zuccala
Giokick Martial Arts
info@giokickmartialarts.co.uk
Tel: 01922 662854


Lead Safeguarding Officer

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Mr Giovanni Zuccala
Giokick Martial Arts
info@giokickmartialarts.co.uk
Tel: 01922 662854


Deputy Safeguarding Officer



Walsall Children's Services (Social Care)

During the day
Monday - Thursday, 8.45am - 5.15pm
Friday, 8.45am - 4.45pm
The Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH)
Civic Centre
Zone 2D
Walsall Council
WS1 1TP

Tel 0300 555 2866
Email: mash@walsall.gcsx.gov.uk

Evenings, weekends, bank holidays (out of hours)
Emergency Response Team
Telephone: 0300 555 2922
or
0300 555 2836


Advice and Information is also available from

The Police - Call 999
or
NSPCC 24 Hour Help line:

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Giokick Martial Arts have achieved the Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts.
The Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts developed by Sports England, NSPCC, Ann Craft Trust and NWG Network, recognises clubs or providers in England who have reached and maintain excellent safeguarding standards.
So after successfully demonstrating our quality safeguarding practices we have now attained this recognition, giving all our existing and future members the peace of mind that when selecting a martial arts club, we are a suitable martial arts organisation, which cares for both children and adults.
Giokick, working for safer sport!