Safeguarding Policy
Stafford Shotokan Karate Child Protection Policy Statement
Stafford Shotokan Karate 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 and the requirements of Staffordshire Safeguarding Children’s Board and Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018.
The 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 SSK in a safe and child centred environment
Are protected from abuse whilst participating in training or competitions or any event held outside of the activity
Stafford Shotokan Karate acknowledges that some children, including disabled children and young people or those from ethnic minority communities, can be particularly vulnerable to abuse and we accept the responsibility to take reasonable and appropriate steps to ensure their welfare.
As part of our safeguarding commitment SSK will:
Promote and prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children and young people and place their welfare at the centre of everything we do.
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 young people.
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 procedures set out the pathway for referring any disclosures of abuse through the correct channels in order that a multi-agency approach between Staffordshire Families Integrated Front Door (SFIFD) and MASH (Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (Police) and Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) where appropriate.
Ensure that confidential, detailed and accurate records of all safeguarding concerns are maintained and securely stored.
Prevent the employment/deployment of unsuitable individuals through DBS checks and certification.
Ensure that robust safeguarding arrangements are implemented at all times which are compliant with Staffordshire Safeguarding Children’s Board procedures and statutory national guidance set out in Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018.
Have designated Child Protection Leads within the club that are appropriately qualified to ensure our safeguarding responsibilities are rigorously maintained.
The policy and procedures will be widely promoted and are mandatory for everyone involved in SSK. Failure to comply with the policy and procedures will be addressed without delay and may ultimately result in dismissal/exclusion from the organisation.
Types of abuse
Abuse can happen in different ways and to anyone. Understanding the types of abuse and their signs can help protect people and keep them safe. If you’re worried about someone, it’s important to speak up. It’s not always easy to spot signs of abuse, the guide below explains the different types of abuse, what they mean, and the signs to look out for. Knowing these can help you protect yourself or someone you care about.
Physical abuse
When someone hurts another person’s body or uses force in the wrong way.
Examples: hitting, slapping, pushing, assault, misuse of medication, unnecessary restraint, physical punishment. Physical can also include unexplained Bruising or injury.
Domestic abuse
Abuse that happens in close relationships, like partners or family members.
Examples: psychological or emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, financial control, honour-based violence. Domestic can also include verbal only, Physical only, Controlling and Coercive Behaviours or all
Sexual abuse
When someone is forced or pressured into sexual activity they do not want or cannot agree to.
Examples: rape or sexual assault, indecent exposure, sexual harassment, unwanted touching, sexual teasing or comments, making someone watch pornography or sexual acts.
Psychological abuse
Abuse that harms someone’s mind or feelings, making them feel scared, controlled or isolated.
Examples: threats or intimidation, humiliation or blaming, stopping contact with friends or family, controlling behaviour, harassment or verbal abuse, cyberbullying.
Financial or material abuse
When someone takes or controls another person’s money, property or belongings without consent.
Examples: theft or fraud, online scams, pressuring someone about money or legal matters, misusing property or benefits.
Modern slavery
When someone is forced to work or live in conditions they cannot leave.
Examples: slavery or human trafficking, forced labour or domestic servitude, using threats, lies or force to control someone.
Discriminatory abuse
When someone is treated badly because of who they are.
Examples: abuse based on race, gender or gender identity, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion.
Organisational abuse
Poor care or neglect that happens in a service, like a hospital, care home or home care.
Examples: ongoing bad practice caused by poor systems or staff behaviour, or one-off incidents of neglect.
Neglect and acts of omission
When someone does not get the care or help they need.
Examples: ignoring medical or emotional needs, not giving access to health or support services, withholding basics like food, heating or medication.
Self-neglect
Self-neglect is when someone’s health, safety, or wellbeing is at risk because they are unable to care for themselves. This can include not eating properly, not maintaining hygiene, or hoarding. Choosing to live differently is not self-neglect if the person understands the risks and is happy with their choice.
Examples: hoarding, not eating properly, not keeping safe at home.
Important note
Safeguarding adults under Section 42 of the Care Act (2014) does not cover suicidal thoughts or self-harm.
If you are worried about an adult at risk because of their mental health, please contact their GP or the right mental health service.
If you’re worried that someone is being abused or neglected, you don’t have to deal with it alone. You can report your concerns to us, and we’ll take steps to help keep them safe. Please speak to our Safeguarding officers.
Safeguarding Officers
Karen Payne (07977 619241)
Hayley Pritchard (07713 163734)
Monitoring
The policy will be reviewed a year after development and then every three years, or in the following circumstances:
Changes in legislation and/or government guidance
As required by the Local Safeguarding Children Board, UK Sport and/or Home Country Sports Councils and South Staffordshire Children’s Board
As a result of any other significant change or event.
Terms of Reference
Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018
Who to Contact
If anyone has concerns regarding a child or young person within the club they should contact either:
Staffordshire Families Integrated Front Door (SFIFD) - 0300 111 8033 - Monday to Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. / Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. / Emergency out of hours: 0345 604 2886
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) / Officers within SSK
For adult safeguarding please contact:
Phone: 0345 604 2719
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm (closed on Bank Holidays)
Emergency out of hours: 0345 604 2886
Last Updated 01.10.2026