Understanding adult safeguarding scenarios in Group Exercise

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. In group exercise, it’s about much more than compliance, it’s about protecting every participant’s right to feel safe, respected and supported.

As instructors who see class participants regularly you’re really well placed to notice if there are changes in behaviours, and to identify signs of neglect, harm or abuse that point to a safeguarding concern. In this article we’ll explain what to look out for and what to do if you are concerned. 

What is safeguarding? 

Safeguarding is the action we take to promote the welfare of others and protect them from abuse, neglect or exploitation. Every adult has the right to live free from harm. Safeguarding ensures that dignity, respect and choice are upheld, both inside and outside the studio.

It’s underpinned by six key principles:

• Empowerment – supporting people to make their own choices
• Prevention – acting before harm occurs
• Proportionality – taking appropriate, measured action
• Protection – supporting those in need
• Partnership – working together to keep people safe
• Accountability – taking responsibility for actions and decisions

Why group exercise instructors are uniquely placed to spot adult safeguarding concerns

Few professionals have the same connection with participants that you do. You see people regularly, sometimes several times a week, and often notice changes that others might miss. You build trust that encourages openness, and you’re naturally observant of mood, confidence and body language.

Shelley Meyern, EMD UK’s Chief Operating Officer and safeguarding lead explains:

“You might have someone who’s always been at the front of the class in a vest top, and suddenly they’re at the back in long sleeves. Or you go to help them and notice bruising. Instructors know their participants well, and it’s often those subtle changes they’ll pick up on first.”

This close connection means instructors can spot early warning signs, such as changes in attendance, mood or engagement.

Shelley adds:

“For some participants, group exercise might be the only time that’s truly for them, the place they feel safe, supported and free. That makes it a powerful setting for disclosure. Instructors might be the first person someone feels they can open up to if something isn’t right.”

This is especially true for older adults, people with additional needs, or those who feel isolated in their daily lives. In some classes, especially mindful, yoga or Pilates-style sessions, emotional release may occur naturally, revealing deeper struggles.

Why adults might need safeguarding

Adults can be vulnerable to abuse or neglect for many reasons, including:

• Age, disability or illness
• Mental health conditions or cognitive impairment
• Substance use or dependency
• Isolation or lack of support
• Financial or domestic pressures
• Language barriers or communication difficulties

Sometimes the vulnerability is temporary, such as after bereavement or during a major life change. Recognising these risks allows instructors to respond sensitively and appropriately.

Examples of adult safeguarding concerns

There are a wide range of safeguarding categories, and there are more that apply to adults than to children. The following categories and examples of each show how safeguarding issues may present subtly and why awareness matters. 

The following safeguarding categories apply to both adults and children:

Neglect
A participant with additional needs is left waiting alone after class because transport isn’t arranged.
Neglect happens when basic needs aren’t met, whether that’s food, medication, or safe travel.

Physical abuse
A participant has unexplained bruises and flinches when touched. They insist they “fell again.”
Repeated injuries or vague explanations can indicate physical harm.

Sexual abuse
A participant becomes distressed when touched during a partnered routine and later discloses inappropriate behaviour at home.
Disclosure can come suddenly, always listen, reassure, and follow safeguarding procedures.

Acts of omission
A participant with diabetes collapses during class after their support worker forgets medication.
Failing to meet essential care needs is a safeguarding issue.

Emotional abuse
A participant becomes tearful during relaxation, saying they feel “worthless” and “a burden.”
Emotional abuse may be ongoing or internalised.

Psychological abuse
A participant shares that their carer constantly belittles them, calling them “useless” and “too old to exercise.”
Persistent criticism or control can cause deep emotional harm.

The following safeguarding categories apply to adults only

Organisational abuse
A participant says staff at their care home discourage them from attending classes, claiming it’s “too much trouble” to arrange transport. You notice they’re often late or miss sessions despite their enthusiasm.
This may point to neglect or restrictive practices within the organisation.

Financial abuse
An older adult says their relative insists on handling their payments but has stopped paying for sessions, even though they wish to continue.
Financial control or exploitation may be occurring.

Discriminatory abuse
You overhear derogatory comments about a participant’s disability or ethnicity. The targeted person seems withdrawn and later stops attending.
Discrimination can be subtle but harmful. Instructors are well placed to address exclusion early.

Domestic abuse
A participant starts arriving late and anxious, saying their partner dislikes them coming to class.
These behaviours may signal controlling or abusive relationships.

Material abuse
A participant with mobility aids says a family member removed their equipment “to stop them going out so much.”
Restricting access to essential items can be a form of abuse.

Coercive control
A participant’s partner waits outside every session, insists on knowing what was discussed, and discourages socialising.
Patterns of monitoring and control are key warning signs.

Modern slavery
A new participant seems fearful, avoids eye contact and says they’re “not allowed to go out much.”
Indicators of exploitation or trafficking should always be taken seriously and reported.

Self-neglect
A participant’s hygiene declines and they appear increasingly confused or withdrawn.
This may indicate self-neglect, especially if they live alone.