Taekwondo4life Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy

Policy Statement
Taekwondo4Life  is committed to creating and maintaining a safe and positive environment for all participants, especially children, involved in our Taekwondo schools. We recognize our responsibility to safeguard the welfare of children and young people and to protect them from harm, abuse, or exploitation.

Legal Framework
This policy is based on the principles and requirements outlined in the following legislation and guidance:

• Children Act 1989 and 2004

• Protection of Children Act 1999

• The Education Act 2002

• Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)

• Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks and relevant vetting procedures

Roles and Responsibilities

• Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO): Noura Abi El Hosn is appointed as the DSO and reports directly to the senior instructor, Richard Monkcom, who is responsible  for coordinating and implementing the safeguarding and child protection policy.

• Instructors and Staff: All instructors and staff members are responsible for implementing and adhering to the policy, reporting concerns, and creating a safe environment for all participants.

Recruitment and Training
All staff and volunteers working with children will undergo appropriate recruitment procedures, including DBS checks. Regular training will be provided to ensure that all staff are aware of their responsibilities, can recognize signs of abuse, and know how to respond to concerns.

Communication and Reporting
Participants, parents/guardians, and staff will be made aware of the safeguarding policy. Any concerns or allegations of abuse will be taken seriously, investigated promptly, and reported to the appropriate authorities as required.

Codes of Conduct
Clear and explicit codes of conduct will be established for all participants, instructors, staff, and volunteers. These codes will emphasize appropriate behavior and interactions, as well as consequences for any breaches.

Confidentiality
Information regarding child protection concerns will be treated confidentially and shared only with those who need to know to safeguard the welfare of the child. Information will be stored securely and in accordance with data protection laws.

Review and Monitoring
This policy will be regularly reviewed to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with relevant legislation. The DSO will monitor and evaluate the implementation of the policy and make any necessary adjustments.

Review Date
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes in legislation, guidance, or the structure of Taekwondo4Life.