Safeguarding Policy

Last updated 4 June 2026

ZR Team Northampton is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of every child and adult at risk who trains with us. The welfare of our members always comes first. This policy explains how we keep people safe and what we expect from coaches, members, parents and visitors.

Our commitment

We believe that no child or adult should ever experience abuse or harm. We are committed to practising in a way that protects everyone who trains at our academy. We follow recognised safeguarding standards from the NSPCC Child Protection in Sport Unit, the UK Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Association (UKBJJA) and our governing-body affiliations.

• We treat the welfare of children and adults at risk as paramount.
• We value, listen to and respect every member of our community.
• We recruit, train and supervise our coaches carefully and safely.
• We respond to concerns quickly, openly and consistently.

Who this policy protects

This policy applies to anyone under the age of 18 and to adults at risk. An adult at risk is a person aged 18 or over who may need care or support and who may be unable to protect themselves from harm. The policy covers all our activities, including classes, private lessons, gradings, competitions and events.

Legal framework

Our approach reflects the key pieces of UK legislation and guidance that protect children and adults at risk.

• The Children Act 1989 and 2004.
• Working Together to Safeguard Children (statutory guidance).
• Keeping Children Safe in Education, where relevant to youth activity.
• The Care Act 2014, in relation to adults at risk.
• NSPCC Child Protection in Sport Unit (CPSU) standards.

Roles and responsibilities

Everyone at the academy shares responsibility for keeping our community safe. Coaches lead by example and follow our code of conduct at all times.

• The Designated Safeguarding Lead, Brad Cuffy, manages concerns, keeps records and liaises with statutory agencies.
• Our Safeguarding Officer, Gary Briggs, is safeguarding-qualified through the UK Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Association (UKBJJA).
• Coaches complete safeguarding training, such as the NSPCC Child Protection in Sport e-learning.
• Coaches working with children hold an enhanced DBS check where required.
• Parents and members are encouraged to raise any worry, however small.

Recognising abuse

Abuse can take many forms. Coaches are trained to recognise the signs of physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, neglect and bullying. We take every disclosure seriously and never ignore a concern.

Reporting a concern

If you are worried that a child or adult is at risk, please act. Speak to the Designated Safeguarding Lead as soon as you can. You do not need proof to share a worry.

1. 1Make sure anyone in immediate danger is safe and call 999 if needed.
2. 2Report your concern to the Designated Safeguarding Lead, Brad Cuffy.
3. 3Write down what you saw or were told, using the person's own words where possible.
4. 4The DSL will decide on next steps and, where appropriate, contact local children's services, the police or the NSPCC helpline (0808 800 5000).

You can also contact the NSPCC at any time on 0808 800 5000, or report concerns directly to Northamptonshire Children's Trust or the police.

Review and contact

This policy is reviewed every year, or sooner if guidance changes. This policy was last reviewed on 4 June 2026. We welcome questions and feedback at any time.