SAFEGUARDING POLICY
Purpose and commitment
ZING Kickboxing Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults.
We recognise our responsibility to provide a safe environment free from abuse, neglect, exploitation, or harm.
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
Scope
This policy applies to all instructors, assistants, volunteers, contractors, parents, guardians, and members.
It covers all activities delivered by ZING Kickboxing Academy, including classes, trials, events, and communications.
Definitions
A child or young person is anyone under 18 years of age.
Safeguarding means protecting individuals from harm and promoting their wellbeing.
Principles
The welfare of the child is paramount.
All children have the right to be safe, listened to, and treated with respect.
All concerns are taken seriously and acted upon appropriately.
Roles and responsibilities
The Lead Safeguarding Officer is responsible for overseeing safeguarding practices and responding to concerns.
All staff and instructors must understand this policy and follow safeguarding procedures.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to raise any concerns immediately.
Safe practice guidelines
Instructors must maintain professional boundaries at all times.
Physical contact is limited to what is necessary for instruction and safety and must be appropriate and explained.
One-to-one situations with children are avoided where possible and must be visible or open.
Changing areas are supervised appropriately and respect privacy.
Behaviour and supervision
Children are supervised at all times during sessions.
Registers are maintained for children’s classes.
Children must be collected by a parent or authorised guardian unless written consent is provided.
Online and communication safety
Communication with children is conducted through parents or guardians where possible.
No private or secretive messaging with children is permitted.
Images or videos of children are only used with prior written consent.
Recognising abuse
Abuse may be physical, emotional, sexual, or neglect.
Concerns may arise from behaviour, injuries, disclosures, or changes in behaviour.
Reporting concerns
Any safeguarding concern must be reported immediately to the Lead Safeguarding Officer.
If a child is in immediate danger, emergency services must be contacted.
Concerns are recorded factually and confidentially.
Confidentiality
Information is shared only on a need-to-know basis.
Safeguarding concerns override normal confidentiality.
Review
This policy is reviewed annually or after any safeguarding incident.