Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of every child in our karate club is our utmost priority. At Ikiru Shotokan Karate Club, we recognise that beyond mastering martial arts skills, fostering a safe and nurturing environment is paramount. That's why we're committed to stringent child safeguarding measures.

As part of our membership to Shotokan Connect, we adhere to their Safeguarding Policy. Extensive further guidance on the topic of safeguarding is available from the EKF (English Karate Federation) to which Shotokan Connect is affiliated, via the following links:

• Safeguarding Children: Key Highlights Summary
• Safeguarding of Children: Full EKF Policy
• Safeguarding of Adults at Risk: Full EKF Policy

From the moment a child steps into our dojo, they become a part of our karate family. Our instructors are not only highly skilled in teaching karate techniques but also undergo thorough Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks. What's more, we maintain an annual recheck policy, ensuring our instructors' records are consistently up-to-date and in line with the highest safeguarding standards. Our support team, including our Marketing Manager & Photo/Videographer also adheres to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks.

We maintain clear and open communication channels with parents, ensuring they are informed and involved in their child's karate journey every step of the way. Additionally, we promote a culture of mutual respect and support among our students.

Bullying, harassment, or any form of misconduct is not tolerated in our dojo. We believe in fostering an inclusive environment where every child can thrive both physically and emotionally.

By prioritising child safeguarding, we not only uphold our responsibilities as a karate club but also empower children to grow with confidence, discipline, and respect.