COMMITMENT TO CHILD SAFETY

​STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT TO CHILD SAFETY

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Karate Central is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful dojo for all children, including members, siblings, and visitors. We recognise that a child-safe learning environment protects children from harm and promotes their physical and mental wellbeing by fostering confidence, resilience, and optimism. This is fundamental to children’s development and growth, both in martial arts and as individuals in their own right. We maintain a zero tolerance stance towards bullying and child abuse, and strive to empower children by treating them with trust, respect, and dignity at all times.

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​CHILD CODE OF CONDUCT:

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1. I will treat other children, their adults, the dojo, my sensei, and myself with respect.

2. I will not be disruptive or interfere with anybody else’s safety or learning.

3. I will listen to instructions and try my best during my lesson.

4. I will not use what I learn at the dojo to bully, tease, or hurt anybody else.

5. I will use the equipment safely and for their intended purpose only.

6. I will not wear any items that may hurt others or damage equipment.

7. I will try my best and maintain control of my actions at all times.

8. I will not cause my body pain or harm by pushing through an injury.

9. I will seek out help from my adults or sensei if there is a problem.

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​ADULT CODE OF CONDUCT:

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1. I will listen to children and treat them with respect.

2. I will not engage in any form of physical, emotional, or verbal abuse against anybody.

3. I will model appropriate behaviour for problem-solving and conflict resolution.

4. I will not use any inappropriate language or gestures in the presence of children.

5. I will play an active role in building all children’s confidence and resilience.

6. I will not take photos of any children without the consent of both them and their adults.

7. I will maintain clear boundaries to ensure children feel comfortable and safe at all times.

8. I will not let personal relationships interfere with my duty to protect all children.

9. I will act immediately if I observe or suspect any concerns regarding the safety and wellbeing of a child.

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REPORTING GUIDE:​

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If you observe or suspect any form of harm or abuse, you have an obligation to act. This guide outlines steps for reporting any concerns or incidents related to the safety or wellbeing of a child. 

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1. Listen and Acknowledge:

   • Listen to the child with care and empathy, and take their concerns seriously. 

   • Reassure the child that they are doing the right thing by speaking up.
      

2. Record the Incident:

   • Record the details of the incident as soon as possible, including date, time, and what was said or observed.

   • Ensure the report is factual, avoiding personal opinions, assumptions, or leading questions.
      

3. Report to Karate Central:

   • Notify Michael Burleigh at Karate Central immediately, either in-person, by phone, or via email.

   • Please note: If the situation requires urgent attention, escalate it immediately to the appropriate authorities.
      

4. Collaboration and Transparency:

   • Contribute to the incident summary by confirming or amending events and providing additional details if required.

   • All parties involved will receive the incident summary and actionable steps to prevent future occurrences.
      

5. Accountability and Follow-Up:

   • An additional check-in will be performed in the next week to ensure wellbeing of all children involved.

   • Confirm resolution or suggest further changes and monitor implementation of actionable steps. 

 

Please always be respectful when reporting a concern and remember our common goal is to advocate for the safety and wellbeing of the child involved. Karate Central's Risk Management Plan is under constant development and available on request.

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