SAFEGUARDING
Our commitment to protecting children, young people, and vulnerable adults.
Our commitment to protecting children, young people, and vulnerable adults.
Last Updated: May 15, 2026
PFT Academy Ltd is a Limited organisation dedicated to delivering Parkour, Freerunning, and Tricking classes to the local community.
PFT Academy is committed to safeguarding and protecting Children and Vulnerable Persons. This policy applies to all adults working for or representing the organisation, including staff, volunteers, and students. Definitions:
Child / Young Person: Anyone under the age of 18.
Vulnerable Person: A person who is unable to protect themselves from harm, exploitation, or abuse due to circumstances such as mental or physical disability.
This policy aims to:
Protect Children, Young People, and Vulnerable Persons receiving services from PFT Academy, including those cared for by adults who also participate.
Provide guidance to all representatives of PFT Academy on their responsibilities to safeguard and protect these individuals.
Ensure that no child or vulnerable person experiences abuse or harm in any form.
While most children and vulnerable persons are in safe environments, PFT Academy recognises potential risks, including but not limited to:
Sexual abuse
Grooming
Physical and emotional abuse
Neglect
Domestic violence
Inadequate supervision by staff or volunteers
Bullying, cyberbullying, or community violence
Victimisation
Self-harm
Unsafe environments, activities, or practices
Crime
Exploitation
PFT Academy recognises that:
Protection of children and vulnerable persons is paramount.
All children and vulnerable persons, regardless of race, gender, religion, disability, age, sexual orientation, or identity, have the right to equal protection.
Certain individuals may be more exposed to harm due to circumstances, prior experiences, communication needs, or dependency levels.
Collaboration with parents, guardians, carers, and other agencies is essential to safeguarding wellbeing.
Children and vulnerable persons must always be accompanied or supervised by an adult.
Before class: Attendance must be recorded, and emergency contact details obtained.
During class: PFT Academy aims for an 8:1 coach-to-participant ratio; typically, a 6:1 ratio will be maintained. If a child or vulnerable person leaves the room, they must be supervised or use the buddy system (traveling with another peer).
After class: Children and vulnerable persons may only leave once handed over to a pre-agreed, signed adult.
Notes:
Any change in collection arrangements must be pre-approved and verified with ID.
Coaches working with children and vulnerable persons undergo enhanced DBS checks under the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006. Allegations of misconduct will be taken seriously. Any concerns should be reported immediately to Kurtis Torbett at Kurtis@ttindustries.co.uk. Allegations will be reviewed, and appropriate actions such as suspension or banning may be applied according to company procedures.
At least one staff member attending each class will be first aid trained. Full details are provided in the organisation’s First Aid Policy.
Photography and video recording during sessions are prohibited unless explicitly authorised. Only vetted professionals may capture images or videos, and consent must be obtained from all participants. Content is used solely for marketing purposes.
PFT Academy has a zero-tolerance policy for bullying. Any incidents will result in immediate separation and investigation. Bullying is defined as repeated misuse of power through verbal, physical, or social behaviour intended to cause harm.
Corporal punishment is strictly prohibited. Physical restraint may only be used to prevent harm or serious property damage, and only with minimum necessary force. Unacceptable behaviour will be managed by removing the individual from the situation and supervising until they are returned to a responsible adult. Temporary suspension or banning may be used as a last resort. Sanctions are determined by Kurtis Torbett. Parents may appeal decisions by contacting Kurtis@ttindustries.co.uk.
Personal information must be handled in accordance with data protection laws. Disclosure is only permitted if lawful and necessary for safeguarding purposes. Records must be maintained of all disclosures. Situations where disclosure may occur include:
Preventing serious harm or death
Coordinating effective responses and early interventions
Preventing abuse
Maintaining good practice in safeguarding
Identifying patterns of abuse or at-risk individuals
Supporting access to appropriate care
Reducing organisational risk and protecting reputation
This policy aligns with UK legislation and guidance, including:
Children Act 1989 & 2004
United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
Data Protection Act 2018
Review: The policy will be reviewed every 3 months. Signed: Kurtis Torbett Date: 05/05/2026
✅ Key Improvements Made:
Consistent use of capitalisation for terms like Children, Vulnerable Persons, Adults, etc.
Simplified and clarified sentences for professional tone.
Standardised lists and formatting for easier reading.
Corrected grammar, typos, and redundancy (“in accordance in accordance”).
Strengthened clarity around supervision, DBS, and data protection.
PFT Academy Ltd DSL : Kurtis Torbett Tel: 07914161904 Deputy DSL : Kim Hopper Tel: 07949505529
PFT Academy Ltd Safeguarding Policy Date of Last Review: 15/05/2026 Next Review Date: 01/05/2027
The purpose of this safeguarding policy is to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants, particularly children, young people, and vulnerable adults, who engage in activities at PFT Academy Ltd. The club is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment, free from harm, abuse, neglect, and exploitation, in line with UK safeguarding laws and guidance.
At PFT Academy Ltd, we believe that everyone has the right to participate in parkour in a safe and enjoyable environment. We are committed to safeguarding the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults by implementing and enforcing appropriate safeguarding policies and procedures in line with UK legislation. We provide equal priority in keeping all children safe regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. We recognise that some children and vulnerable persons may be more vulnerable due to factors such as discrimination, previous experience, level of dependency, communication needs, or other issues. This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, coaches, members, and anyone involved in the club.
This policy applies to:
All staff (permanent, temporary, and volunteers)
Coaches, instructors, and assistant coaches
Participants, members, and their parents or guardians
Any other individuals involved in the activities of the club
This policy is guided by the following UK laws and safeguarding guidance:
Children Act 1989 & 2004
Care Act 2014
Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018
Keeping Children Safe in Education 2023
Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
Children and Social Work Act 2017
Sexual Offences Act 2003
Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR
The club will follow guidance from the Child Protection in Sport Unit (CPSU), NSPCC, and best practices from Sport England and relevant governing bodies.
Safeguarding: Actions taken to protect children and vulnerable adults from harm, including physical, emotional, sexual abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
Child: Anyone under the age of 18.
Vulnerable Adult: A person aged 18 or older who, due to physical or mental disability, age, or illness, may be unable to protect themselves from harm or exploitation.
Abuse: Harm that may be caused by physical, emotional, sexual abuse, or neglect, including online abuse.
Club Management:
Ensure safeguarding policies and procedures are in place, reviewed annually, and updated according to UK legislation.
Provide safeguarding training to all staff, volunteers, and coaches (e.g., NSPCC or Governing Body courses).
Appoint a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and deputy safeguarding officer.
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):
Act as the primary point of contact for all safeguarding concerns.
Work closely with local authorities and safeguarding boards.
Ensure safeguarding concerns are recorded accurately and confidentially and take appropriate action, including referrals to external agencies.
Staff, Coaches, and Volunteers:
Adhere to the club’s safeguarding policy and procedures.
Report any safeguarding concerns to the DSL immediately.
Create and maintain a safe, positive environment, maintaining professional boundaries.
Parents/Guardians:
Report any safeguarding concerns through official channels.
Maintain safe communication with your child.
The club will ensure robust recruitment practices to protect children, young people, and vulnerable adults, including:
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks for all staff and volunteers working with children or vulnerable adults.
Obtaining references from previous employers or relevant individuals.
Completion of safeguarding training before working with vulnerable groups.
Any concern or suspicion of abuse, neglect, or harm must be reported to the DSL immediately. The DSL will assess the concern and, where necessary, refer the case to the appropriate local safeguarding board, children’s services, or police.
Types of Abuse:
Physical: Hitting, shaking, or other forms of physical harm.
Emotional: Bullying, humiliation, or continual criticism.
Sexual: Inappropriate contact, exposure to sexual acts, or exploitation.
Neglect: Failing to provide basic needs, including medical care or supervision.
Confidentiality:
Safeguarding concerns will be handled confidentially. Information will only be shared with individuals and agencies that need to be involved.
Coaches and Volunteers:
Treat all participants equally and with respect.
Avoid inappropriate physical contact unless required for safety.
Do not engage in personal relationships with participants.
Never use abusive language or tolerate bullying or harassment.
Report any safeguarding concerns.
Participants:
Follow the instructions of coaches and staff.
Behave respectfully towards others and report any concerns. Avoid engaging in risky or dangerous behaviour.
All staff and volunteers working with children and vulnerable adults must complete mandatory safeguarding training (e.g., NSPCC). Refresher training will be conducted annually or whenever legislation or best practices change. Parents, guardians, and participants will be made aware of the safeguarding policy and how to report concerns.
The club is committed to an open and supportive environment. Anyone who has concerns about the behaviour of an individual or safeguarding practices is encouraged to speak out. Whistleblowers are protected under the UK Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998.
Purpose: To protect children, young people, and vulnerable adults from inappropriate use of cameras, phones, and social media.
Mobile Phones & Personal Devices:
Participants should use personal devices responsibly and only at appropriate times.
Staff and volunteers should avoid personal contact with participants via mobile messaging unless necessary for club communication.
Concerns about inappropriate messaging must be reported to the DSL immediately.
Social Media:
Staff, volunteers, and coaches must maintain professional boundaries online.
No staff member should accept friend/follow requests from participants under 18.
Official club social media accounts should be moderated by approved staff.
Participants should report any online bullying or inappropriate behaviour.
Photography and Filming:
Written parental/guardian consent must be obtained before photographing or filming children or vulnerable adults.
Images/videos should only be used for legitimate club purposes (promotion, training, competitions).
Parents/guardians must not take photos or videos during sessions unless the session is specifically advertised as “photo/filming permitted.”
Staff should avoid taking personal photos or videos of participants.
Avoid one-to-one situations where filming occurs behind closed doors.
Misuse or inappropriate distribution of images must be reported immediately.
Professional Boundaries:
Staff and volunteers must not post participant images or videos on personal social media accounts.
Reporting:
Any concerns regarding mobile use, social media, or photography should be reported immediately to the DSL.
The policy will be reviewed annually, or when legislation changes, to ensure it remains aligned with UK standards. The Safeguarding Lead will monitor safeguarding practices and report any issues to club management.
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Kurtis Torbett Tel: 07914 161904 | Email: Kurtis@ttindustries.co.uk
Deputy DSL: Kim Hopper Tel: 07949 505529 | Email: Kimh_x@hotmail.com
Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO): https://www.hants.gov.uk/socialcareandhealth/childrenandfamilies/safeguardingchildren/allegations
NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0808 800 5000
Police or Emergency Services: 999 (emergencies)
Club Chairperson: ____________________ K. Torbett
Designated Safeguarding Lead: ____________________ K. Torbett
Date: 16/05/2026
This policy reflects PFT Academy Ltd’s commitment to safeguarding children, young people, and vulnerable adults and aligns with UK laws and best practices.
PFT Academy Ltd DSL : Kurtis Torbett Tel: 07914161904 Deputy DSL : Kim Hopper Tel: 07949505529
Safeguarding Responsibilities and Reporting Procedures
All staff and volunteers are responsible for safeguarding and ensuring the safety of children and vulnerable adults. They must report concerns and understand when it is appropriate to refer cases to local authorities, social services, or the police. Some individuals may be unable to recognise or share their concerns and rely on staff and volunteers to be vigilant.
PFT Academy Ltd has a dedicated team responsible for responding to safeguarding concerns and providing advice to staff, volunteers, and participants.
All staff and volunteers have a responsibility to address poor practice when it is recognised, even if it was done with good intentions. Failure to address poor practice can allow abuse or harm to remain unnoticed. All safeguarding incidents must be reported to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or the Deputy DSL.
This procedure provides clear guidance for reporting concerns related to the safety and well-being of children, young people, and vulnerable adults at PFT Academy Ltd. The club is committed to ensuring all concerns are addressed promptly, appropriately, and in accordance with UK safeguarding laws.
Concerns may arise from:
Disclosure from a child, young person, or vulnerable adult.
Direct or reported observations of possible abuse, neglect, suspicious behaviour, or poor practice.
Significant changes in behaviour, appearance, attitude, or relationships.
Reports from external agencies or individuals.
If you believe a child, young person, or vulnerable adult is in immediate danger or at risk of serious harm:
Call 999 for the police or ambulance services.
Inform the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) as soon as possible.
If someone discloses abuse or harm:
Listen carefully without interruption or showing shock.
Reassure them that they are doing the right thing by speaking up.
Do not ask leading questions; only ask open questions to clarify.
Example: “Can you tell me more about what happened?”
Do not promise confidentiality; explain that information must be shared with those who can help.
Record facts accurately, using their own words as much as possible.
Report the disclosure to the DSL immediately.
Step 1: Record the Concern Document details as soon as possible, including:
Nature of the concern or disclosure.
Date and time of the incident or disclosure.
Names of those involved, including witnesses if applicable.
The child or vulnerable adult’s account.
Any actions taken (e.g., medical assistance or contacting authorities).
Use the Safeguarding Incident Report Form if available, ensuring all information is factual and objective. Avoid including personal opinions.
Step 2: Report to the DSL
Report immediately to the DSL or Deputy DSL if the DSL is unavailable.
If the concern involves the DSL, report to the Deputy DSL or a senior member of management.
DSL Contact Details: Kurtis Torbett | 07914 161904 | Kurtis@ttindustries.co.uk
Deputy DSL Contact Details: Kim Hopper | 07949 505529 | Kimh_x@hotmail.com
Step 3: DSL Actions Upon receiving a concern, the DSL will:
Assess the concern and determine the level of risk.
Seek guidance from the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) or local safeguarding board if necessary.
Refer the case to children’s social care, adult safeguarding, or the police as appropriate—within 24 hours of the concern being raised.
Record all actions, ensuring safeguarding records are complete and up to date.
Safeguarding concerns are treated with strict confidentiality. Information is only shared with individuals or agencies directly involved in safeguarding the child, young person, or vulnerable adult. Personal data is stored securely in line with Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR.
If external intervention is required:
Children’s Social Care Services: Contact the local authority children’s social care team to refer concerns, providing detailed information.
Vulnerable Adults: Contact the local authority adult safeguarding team for assessment and appropriate action.
Police: Report criminal behaviour (e.g., sexual abuse or physical harm) immediately.
Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO): Allegations involving staff, volunteers, or coaches are referred to the LADO. LADO Contact Details: Hampshire LADO
Report any allegation immediately to the DSL.
If the allegation involves the DSL, report to the Deputy DSL or club chairperson.
The DSL will contact the LADO and follow guidance, which may include suspension.
No internal investigation should begin until instructions are received from the LADO or police.
Child or Vulnerable Adult: Access to counselling or support services. Regular updates while maintaining confidentiality.
Staff or Volunteer (Accused): Support provided during investigation, but suspension may be necessary for safety.
Staff, volunteers, or participants with concerns about safeguarding handling are encouraged to report them.
Protection is provided under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998.
NSPCC Whistleblowing Advice Line: 0800 028 0285
All safeguarding concerns must be fully documented by the DSL.
Records stored securely in compliance with UK data protection laws.
Access only by individuals directly involved in safeguarding.
Retained in line with legal requirements.
All staff, coaches, and volunteers receive safeguarding training during induction and annual refresher training.
This procedure will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislation or best practices change.
Last Review Date: 15/05/2026 Next Review Date: 15/05/2027