NAKMAS’ robust child protection standards are highlighted in James case

12 August 2008 - The National Association of Karate and Martial Art Schools’ (NAKMAS) robust child safety procedures have been tested in relation to Derek James a senior instructor at the Freestyle Shotokan Karate Association in Bedford, who entered a guilty plea to criminal charges at Bedford Crown Court this week.

NAKMAS’ swift revocation of Mr James’ license in April, when criminal charges were brought against him, as well as the organisation’s assistance with the police investigation was just part of NAKMAS’ child safety mechanisms.

Joe Ellis, Chairman of NAKMAS, says:

“We were shocked when Mr James’ charges came to light and we acted immediately. We regret that the danger he posed could not be identified sooner.”

“The vetting procedures and processes we have in place are the most robust in the country. The interests and the safety of the children are our top priority. Not only is NAKMAS the only martial arts body to have been awarded national and international British Standard Institute awards for the quality of its management, but its comprehensive child protection policy was drawn up with and has been recognised by the NSPCC.”

NAKMAS also conduct the mandatory Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) checks on all coaches prior to their taking up positions within NAKMAS member clubs. Despite this, in addition to NAKMAS’ own, self-imposed safety standards, no previous criminal record emerged in relation to Mr James.

Joe Ellis says: “The CRB checks are the most rigorous and regulated checks instructors go through. Even with this procedure, there was no indication of previous criminal activity.”

“The CRB checks will not be 100 per cent effective. For example, they will not reveal the risk someone poses if they have never committed an offence but who goes on to do so. Nevertheless, we will continue to maintain our own child safety standards with regular reviews to keep child protection at the top of the agenda for NAKMAS member clubs.”

Ends

Notes for editors

The National Association of Karate and Martial Art Schools (NAKMAS) is a non-funded national governing body and is a member of CCPR (the Central Council of Physical Recreation). With its Head Office based in Kent, NAKMAS governs all forms of traditional and modern martial arts and has over 65,000 members within the UK.

NAKMAS is an approved insurance provider via Lloyds and holds a National and International Quality Standard Certificate via the BSI (British Standards Institute). NAKMAS has also been accredited to the Equality Standard: A Framework for Sport.

Coaching awards to the standard of the NVQ (National Vocational Qualification) and UKCC (United Kingdom Coaching Certificate) are available within NAKMAS. It has an active NSPCC approved Welfare Policy (visit www.nakmas.org.uk for more information), and has launched a UK-wide anti-bullying initiative called the ‘NAKMAS Safe Kids Campaign’. It also has Registered Body status via the CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) and Disclosure Scotland to check against the criminal records register.

For further information, please contact:

Joe Ellis, chair and acting lead child protection officer, NAKMAS National Governing Body

Tel: 01227 370055 / 07976 736404

Fax: 01227 370056

Email: joe.ellis@nakmas.org.uk

Site: www.nakmas.org.uk

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