Safeguarding at GKI
The Goju-Ryu Karate International is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all members, particularly children and vulnerable adults. We recognize our responsibility to ensure that all participants can train in a safe, positive, and respectful environment.
Our Commitment to Safety
Every person involved with GKI—whether instructor, student, parent, or volunteer—has a responsibility to help keep our karate community safe.
Protecting
Children and vulnerable adults from abuse, harm, and exploitation
Preventing
The impairment of children's health or development
Ensuring
Children grow up in circumstances consistent with safe and effective care
Taking Action
To enable all children and vulnerable adults to have the best outcomes
Child Protection
All GKI instructors and coaches working with children and young people must meet rigorous safeguarding standards.
Valid Background Checks
Hold valid DBS checks (UK) or equivalent background checks in their country
Safeguarding Training
Complete safeguarding awareness training appropriate to their role
Follow Code of Conduct
Adhere to our strict Code of Conduct at all times
Report Concerns
Report any safeguarding concerns immediately through proper channels
Professional Boundaries
Maintain appropriate boundaries and professional conduct
Code of Conduct
All GKI members, instructors, and volunteers agree to uphold these standards of behavior and conduct.
Treat all individuals with respect and dignity
Provide a positive role model for good conduct and behavior
Never use physical punishment or engage in rough physical play
Maintain appropriate physical contact during instruction
Respect privacy and personal space
Never engage in inappropriate relationships
Report concerns promptly and appropriately
GKI UK Primary Welfare Officer
Sensei Matt Taylor, 5th Dan
Lead Safeguarding and Child Protection
GKI UK Secondary Welfare Officer
Carly Barrett-Greening
Email: welfareofficer@wessexkarate.co.uk
Phone: 07850 732303
🚨 In an Emergency
If someone is in immediate danger, always call emergency services first:
What Happens Next
All safeguarding reports are:
- Taken seriously and treated as urgent
- Handled confidentially (information shared only on a need-to-know basis)
- Investigated appropriately according to our procedures
- Responded to in line with local safeguarding legislation
Important Note: These welfare officers serve GKI UK clubs only. Members from other countries should contact their national GKI representative or the GKI International office.
Policy Documents
Our comprehensive safeguarding documentation is available for download. All GKI clubs are required to implement these policies.
GKI Safeguarding Statement
Complete safeguarding policy and procedures
Download PDF →GKI Safeguarding Adult Policy
Complete safeguarding policy and procedures
Download PDF →GKI Safeguarding Children Policy
Complete safeguarding policy and procedures
Download PDF →Code of Conduct Children
Expected behaviors for all members
Download PDF →Code of Conduct Parents
Expected behaviors for all members
Download PDF →Photography & Social Media Policy
Guidelines for image use and online safety
Download PDF →Compaints Procedure
For reporting concerns or incidents
Download PDF →Safe Practice Policy
Safeguarding information for parents and guardians
Download PDF →Note: These documents are hosted on our secure member platform. Links will direct you to DojoConnect for download.
Training and Resources
Safeguarding Training for Instructors
GKI provides safeguarding training for all instructors and club officials. We also offer resources to help clubs implement best practices in safeguarding.
For clubs: Safeguarding training is mandatory for all instructors working with children and must be renewed every three years.
Useful External Resources
United Kingdom:
- NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000
- Childline: 0800 1111
- NSPCC Website: www.nspcc.org.uk
For safeguarding resources in other European countries where GKI operates, please contact your national GKI representative.
Insurance and Compliance
All GKI affiliated clubs must:
- Maintain appropriate liability insurance
- Comply with national safeguarding legislation and requirements
- Follow GKI's safeguarding policies and procedures
- Keep safeguarding training up to date