For information – Earlier on this week, the EKF issued the following, indicating a possible return to training in the dojo in May : 

 

Dear members,

I wish to bring you up to date on a number of issues

Return to Training

As I am sure you are all aware, the government have now announced the pathway out of lockdown. This means grassroot sports will soon be able to return, and that we can re -open our clubs.

Following on-going discussions with Sport England and DCMS we can now confirm we may open our clubs as follows.

March 29th …. All ages may return to OUTDOOR training

April 12th….. 17 year olds and under may return to INDOOR training

May 17th …. Adults may return to INDOOR training

As it stands, all training must be socially distanced, and non-contact, Free standing pad/bag work is allowed, providing cleaning protocols are in place. Barefoot indoor training will be allowed for all age groups.

We continue to make representations regarding the type of training we are allowed and hope that we may soon be permitted to do more than previously.

Some have asked about the return of school sport from the 8th March. Any clubs that are part of a school’s activity programme will be advised directly by the school if they are allowed.

[…]

Safeguarding matter

EKF wish to remind members to be diligent in arranging and attending courses (both in person and online) with Instructors and coaches that are not part of their Association or not part of the EKF.

We are aware of a number of incidents where the person leading the course is on the DBS barred list. In short that means they are deemed to represent a significant and potential risk to children and vulnerable adults. The law bars them from coaching minors and vulnerable adults.

Anyone who might arrange sessions where such people are coaching can also be held legally responsible. As such we urge you to complete your due diligence and safety checks.

The EKF will take the strongest action when we are made aware of such breaches happening and will pursue this obligation beyond confines of EKF membership. It is important we all police our activity.

Website

We are currently updating and refreshing the website. This should go live in the next couple of weeks. A formal announcement will be made on Facebook and other social media when the new site is live.

Future events

We will announce plans for future events once we have had clear guidance from DCMS and Sport England. Whilst Government have identified the 21st June as an end to all social distancing, they have not made clear what other conditions might be put in place. Once we know more, we will make a formal announcement of the plans we have.

In closing, we have every reason to feel more positive. We know it has been an incredibly difficult time for everyone, and we have a lot of rebuilding to do. It won’t be easy, and we will all face challenges as try to recover. EKF will do all it can to help members in this task as we prioritise the rebuild of our clubs and dojo.

If you have any questions, or need further information, please email [email protected] or [email protected]

In the meantime, continue to stay safe, and keep those around you safe

Kind regards

Steve Coupland
EKF President