Equality & Diversity Policy

1. Introduction
   Close Combat Martial Arts is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in all
   aspects of our martial arts training, coaching, and club operations. We believe that every individual,
   regardless of background, has the right to participate in martial arts in a welcoming, inclusive, and
   supportive environment.
2. Purpose
   The purpose of this policy is to:

• Ensure equality, fairness, and respect for all in our club.
• Prevent discrimination based on protected characteristics under the UK Equality Act 2010,
  including age, disability, gender, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual
  orientation, pregnancy and maternity, and marriage and civil partnership.
• Encourage a culture of respect, inclusivity, and equal opportunity in martial arts.
• Provide procedures for reporting and addressing discrimination, harassment, and bullying.

1. Scope
   This policy applies to all members, students, instructors, staff, volunteers, parents, guardians, and
   visitors of Close Combat Martial Arts.
2. Club Commitment
   At Close Combat Martial Arts, we are committed to:

• Providing a training environment free from discrimination, harassment, and victimisation.
• Ensuring all individuals have equal access to training, coaching, and competitive
  opportunities.
• Making reasonable adjustments to accommodate members with disabilities or additional
  needs.
• Educating instructors, staff, and volunteers on equality and diversity.
• Addressing incidents of discrimination, harassment, or unfair treatment through appropriate
  procedures.

1. Expectations of Club Members
   All members, instructors, and staff are expected to:

• Respect the rights and dignity of others.
• Challenge and report any discriminatory behaviour or language.
• Support efforts to make Close Combat Martial Arts a safe and inclusive environment for
  all.

1. Anti-Discrimination & Harassment
   Close Combat Martial Arts will not tolerate any form of discrimination, harassment, or bullying,
   including:

• Offensive or derogatory comments, jokes, or behaviour.
• Exclusionary practices based on personal characteristics.
• Sexist, racist, homophobic, or otherwise discriminatory language.
• Any form of abuse, intimidation, or victimisation.
  Anyone found to have engaged in such behaviour may face disciplinary action, including
  suspension or removal from the club.

1. Inclusive Training & Reasonable Adjustments
   To ensure fair participation for all, Close Combat Martial Arts will:

• Make reasonable adjustments for members with disabilities or medical conditions.
• Adapt training methods to accommodate different abilities and needs.
• Provide alternative participation options when required.

1. Reporting Concerns
   Any concerns about discrimination, harassment, or unfair treatment should be reported to the Club
   Safeguarding Officer or a senior club official. Reports will be handled confidentially and in
   accordance with the club’s complaints procedure.
2. Escalation
   If a member is not satisfied with how a complaint has been handled, they may escalate concerns to
   BMABA’s Safeguarding Team at:

• Phone: 01798 306546
• Email: safeguarding@bmaba.org.uk

1. Monitoring & Review
   This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure its effectiveness. Amendments will be made as
   necessary to align with UK equality laws and best practices.
   Signed:
   David Close
   Club Representative, Close Combat Martial Arts