Activity
Martial Arts
Audience
Juniors and Seniors
Location
Dartford, Gravesham, Maidstone, Medway
Organisation
Kyushin Ryu Ju Jitsu Association operates clubs across Kent and Sussex and teaches traditional Japanese Ju Jitsu. In May 2025, they contacted Active Kent & Medway, specifically engaging with Stuart, one of our Sport Welfare Officers, to seek guidance and support regarding their safeguarding practices. Following an initial meeting with Stuart, it was recommended that the Association complete the Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts.
The Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts was established in 2018, through a partnership with organisations and specialists in safeguarding, including the Child Protection in Sport Unit (NSPCC), Ann Craft Trust, NWG, and Sport England. It is designed to support martial arts clubs and providers to adopt and maintain high quality safeguarding practices.
Supporting Welfare
The Association began work on achieving the Safeguarding Code by immediately appointing a new Safeguarding Lead, Rod Cullen.
The Association went on to develop new policies, procedures, and reporting forms, and introduced a section on their website where these documents are now available to members. Contact information for Rod Cullen is also provided on the website, along with a photo to ensure he is identifiable and visible.
In October 2025, Kyushin Rhu Ju Jitsu were officially awarded the Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts and shared the good news with their members. The Association now appears on the Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts club finder search, which lists only those organisations who have achieved the code. Parents, carers, and educational institutions are advised to use this search tool to identify clubs that have signed up to the Safeguarding Code.
Impact
Recruitment of a new Safeguarding Lead.- Full review of safeguarding policies and procedures.
- Specific page on the association website to display policies and procedures making them accessible for everyone.
- Completion of Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts and now listed on the national ‘club finder’ database.
“Achieving the Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts Quality Mark is a vital step for our association. It’s not just about meeting standards; it’s about creating a culture where the safety and wellbeing of every participant is at the heart of everything we do. The process has helped us reflect, improve, and embed safeguarding into our everyday practice.” Rod Cullen, Safeguarding Officer
Next Steps
The Association plans to:
- Promote the success of achieving the Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts.
- Maintain the safeguarding standards now set.
- Review policies and procedures on a regular basis.
“In Martial Arts, where trust and discipline are central, safeguarding must be seen as a non-negotiable priority. This Quality Mark gives parents, carers, and participants confidence that we are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all.” Rod Cullen, Safeguarding Officer
Interested in giving Japanese Ju Jitsu a go?
Visit Kyushin Ryu Ju Jitsu Association to find a club session near you.
