EMD UK wants everyone to have a positive, safe and enjoyable experience when taking part in any group exercise activities. We also strive to ensure that all staff, teachers, instructors and volunteers are clear on what is expected of them and that best practice is central to all activities.
Our priority is to ensure that the delivery of all group exercise activities is done in a safe and protective manner that promotes the welfare of all children and young people and protects them from harm.
Safeguarding in group exercise must have three key elements:
Instructors should also be aware of the position of trust legislation here.
If you need to report a concern, the CPSU has a list of contacts that you can reach out to or you can contact an EMD UK Safeguarding Officer on 01403 266000 or safeguarding@emduk.org.
You can also contact your local authority or the police if you have urgent concerns.
Depending on your role, information and training is either essential or recommended. View our handy training matrix to find out what’s available to you.
The Crime and Policing Act 2026 has introduced significant safeguarding changes that affect anyone working with children and young people in leisure, fitness and sports settings.
These changes create real new obligations that fitness professionals, clubs, governing bodies, and coaches must understand and act on.
Download the full briefing and understand what legislation applies where, and what that means for you and/or your organisation.
As the national governing body for group exercise and physical activity, EMD UK is well placed to support instructors navigating the DBS process, including those applying for Enhanced DBS checks under the new legislation for self-employed workers and personal employees.
This is the place where you can make your voice heard. Tell us about anything that matters to you, whether it’s something bothering you at your session, class or club, who to talk to when you’re upset or some ideas on how to keep you and your friends happy!
We want to ensure that you, as a parent, have confidence in the safety of the environment the teacher creates for your child or young person.
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