BMABA Referenced in Parliament on Martial Arts Safeguarding

Hi there,

We’re proud to share that the British Martial Arts & Boxing Association (BMABA) was recently referenced in Parliament during a debate on safeguarding in combat sports for children.

MPs highlighted BMABA’s role in setting high safeguarding standards across the independent martial arts sector. This recognition was later reinforced in a letter from Stephanie Peacock MP, Minister for Sport, Media, Civil Society and Youth, who confirmed that the Government values the Association’s contribution in shaping future safeguarding frameworks for martial arts.

“I appreciate [BMABA's] ongoing efforts to make martial arts safer for children.” — Stephanie Peacock MP, Minister for Sport, Media, Civil Society and Youth

At the same time, we are taking proactive steps to further strengthen protection for students at every level. This month we are rolling out a completely free Participant Advocate and Safe Adult (PASA) Award to all members — including instructors, assistant instructors, volunteers and even free affiliates.

Developed from our research into recurring failures in event supervision, the PASA initiative recognises that many serious injuries and safeguarding lapses happen because responsibility for participant welfare is not always clearly defined between instructors, organisers and parents.

The PASA CPD and framework will empower clubs to send students to third-party events knowing there is a trained safe adult present. Every PASA will be equipped to spot the signs of concussion, raise concerns where welfare may be at risk, and advocate for children and adults at risk who might otherwise be overlooked. This creates a clear, accountable link in the chain of command, ensuring no student is left without a voice.

This initiative forms part of a much broader package of support being launched this month to help clubs both navigate third-party events safely and host their own competitions with confidence. By combining national recognition of our safeguarding leadership with practical, on-the-ground tools like the PASA Award, BMABA is reinforcing its commitment to raising standards, protecting participants, and ensuring independent martial arts can continue to thrive safely.

Join the conversation in our Regulation Ready space here.