Adults at Risk Policy

Cobra Jujitsu Skegness

1. Policy Statement

Cobra Jujitsu is committed to protecting adults at risk who train with us, in line with the Care Act 2014 definition and BMABA's safeguarding framework. This policy sits alongside our Safeguarding Policy, which covers children - this one covers adults.

2. What We Mean by "Adult at Risk"

An adult at risk is someone aged 18 or over who has needs for care and support, is experiencing, or is at risk of, abuse or neglect, and is unable to protect themselves because of those needs. This might relate to a physical or learning disability, a mental health condition, dementia, or another vulnerability - and it can be permanent or temporary (for example, after a bereavement or during a period of illness). It's someone's circumstances, not a label - we treat every adult member as capable and independent unless something tells us otherwise.

3. Our Approach

  • We treat every adult member with dignity, respect, and as an equal partner in their own training
  • We don't make assumptions about capability based on age, disability, or health condition
  • Where an adult member tells us about a condition or support need, we'll ask how we can help rather than deciding for them
  • Instructors are alert to signs of abuse, neglect, or exploitation - whether happening at the club or elsewhere - and know how to respond
  • Any concern is handled with the same seriousness, confidentiality and urgency as a child safeguarding concern

4. Signs to Be Aware Of

Instructors are asked to be alert to signs that an adult member may be at risk, including:

  • Unexplained injuries, or reluctance to explain how an injury happened
  • Sudden changes in behaviour, confidence, or mood
  • Signs of self-neglect, or of being controlled or restricted by another person
  • Anything the member themselves discloses, directly or indirectly

None of these on their own prove abuse is happening - but they're reasons to ask, gently and without judgement.

5. Reporting a Concern

Any concern about an adult member's safety or wellbeing should be reported to our Designated Safeguarding Lead, Mark Adams, at safeguarding@cobrajujitsu.com. We follow the same Report, Record, Refer model used for children - see our Safeguarding Policy for how this works, including how to raise a concern independently with BMABA. Where an adult is in immediate danger, call 999.

6. Review of Policy

This policy is reviewed annually or when BMABA or Care Act guidance changes.

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