BMABA CIC recognises that 1-to-1 coaching can be a valuable part of a student’s development. However, where such sessions involve individuals under the age of 18, they present an increased safeguarding risk, particularly where a parent or guardian is not present.
As a general principle, instructors should avoid being alone with an under-18 student in a private or unobservable setting. This is due to the inherent safeguarding risks and the difficulty in evidencing appropriate conduct should any concern arise.
Where 1-to-1 sessions with under-18s take place without a parent or guardian present, the following safeguarding measures must be implemented:
Parental knowledge and written consent
The parent or guardian must be fully informed of the nature, timing and location of the sessions, including the fact they will not be present, and must provide written consent.
Open and observable environment
Sessions must take place in an open, visible setting such as a gym, hall or venue with public access. Sessions must not take place behind closed doors, in locked rooms or in isolated private premises.
Transparency and accountability
Where possible, other adults should be present within the wider environment, such as venue staff or other users. Use of CCTV is strongly encouraged where available.
Professional boundaries
Instructors must maintain clear professional boundaries at all times. Any physical contact must be appropriate, necessary and in line with coaching practice. Situations that could be misinterpreted must be avoided.
Session records
A clear record of each session must be maintained, including date, time, location and attendees. This should be retained as part of the club’s safeguarding documentation.
Communication protocols
All communication with the student must remain professional. Parents or guardians should be included in communications wherever possible.
Safeguarding and DBS compliance
The instructor must hold an up-to-date enhanced DBS check where required and have completed safeguarding training in line with BMABA requirements.
Instructors should be aware that, even where these measures are in place, they remain responsible for the decision to conduct unsupervised 1-to-1 sessions with under-18s. The presence of a parent, guardian or another responsible adult remains the safest and most strongly recommended approach.