Safeguarding Policy

1. Introduction

Patello BJJ is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all members, particularly children and vulnerable adults. We acknowledge our duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of young people and comply with relevant legal and regulatory frameworks.

This policy outlines our approach to child protection and safeguarding, with a focus on prevention, accountability, and effective response to concerns.

2. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Name: Sid Austen
Email: patellobjjmolesey@gmail.com
Phone: 07920 018 506

The DSL is responsible for managing safeguarding concerns, maintaining records, making referrals, and ensuring compliance with best practices.

3. Who This Policy Applies To

This policy applies to:

  • All staff, instructors, and volunteers

  • All children and young people under the age of 18

  • Parents, guardians, and carers

  • Adult members and visitors who interact with junior participants

4. Admission of Children to Adult Classes

Patello BJJ allows children aged 14 and over to participate in adult classes under the following conditions:

  • Parental or guardian consent is mandatory, given by signing a liability waiver.

  • Junior participants are assessed for suitability, including physical capability, emotional maturity, and behavioural conduct.

  • Participation is monitored regularly to ensure continued appropriateness and safety.

  • Mixed-age sessions are structured with age-appropriate pairings and supervision to prevent risk of harm.

5. Safeguarding Principles and Responsibilities

We are committed to:

  • Protecting all children and vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect, and exploitation

  • Providing a safe environment where young people can thrive

  • Listening to the voices of children and young people

  • Responding swiftly to all concerns or disclosures

  • Promoting a culture of accountability, transparency, and learning

All staff and volunteers must report concerns to the DSL without delay.

6. Code of Conduct

For Coaches and Staff:

  • Act as positive role models at all times

  • Maintain professional boundaries and avoid inappropriate behaviour or language

  • Never be alone with a child in a private setting

  • Uphold respect, fairness, and safety during training

  • Hold a valid enhanced DBS check

  • Attend safeguarding training as required

  • Report all concerns immediately to the DSL

For Children and Young People:

  • Show respect to coaches, staff, and peers

  • Follow class rules and instructor guidance

  • Never engage in bullying or discriminatory behaviour

  • Speak to a trusted adult or the DSL if they feel unsafe

  • Help create a positive and inclusive training environment

For Parents and Guardians:

  • Provide accurate contact, medical, and emergency information

  • Ensure timely drop-off and collection of their child

  • Support positive behaviour and safe participation

  • Communicate respectfully with staff and raise concerns appropriately

  • Ensure the liability waiver and consent is signed for children attending both children’s classes and adult classes (where applicable)

7. Training and Supervision

  • All staff and instructors working with young people must complete an enhanced DBS check.

  • Regular safeguarding training is provided and updated in line with best practices.

  • New staff are supervised and mentored during their initial engagement period.

  • Junior members (aged 14+) in adult classes are assessed for maturity, monitored, and re-evaluated if concerns arise.

  • Staff are trained in safe physical contact, age-appropriate instruction, and managing disclosures.

8. Legislation and Guidance We Follow

Patello BJJ complies with the following laws and frameworks:

  • Children Act 1989 and 2004

  • Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)

  • Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE)

  • The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006

  • UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR)

  • Data Protection Act 2018

  • Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

These standards underpin our safeguarding policies, risk assessments, and operational procedures.

9. Responding to Concerns

All concerns or disclosures, regardless of severity, must be taken seriously.

  • The DSL will assess the concern, document it securely, and decide on the appropriate course of action.

  • In serious cases, the DSL will refer the concern to local safeguarding services.

  • Confidentiality will be maintained appropriately, but safeguarding concerns override confidentiality where necessary to protect a child.

10. Contact Details – C-SPA (Surrey County Council)

If you believe a child is at risk or in immediate danger, contact Surrey County Council’s Children’s Services:

In an emergency, always call 999.

11. Review of Policy

This policy is reviewed annually, or earlier if there are updates in safeguarding legislation, guidance, or incidents that warrant revision.

12. Approval and Sign-Off

This policy is approved and signed by:

Sid Austen
Designated Safeguarding Lead
Patello BJJ
Email: patellobjjmolesey@gmail.com
Phone: 07920 018 506