SAFEGUARDING POLICY
When we say The Grappling Society is a safe place to train, we actually mean it.
DISCRIMINATION
There is zero tolerance for discrimination of any kind at The Grappling Society. That includes (but isn’t limited to) racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, religious discrimination, or any other form of prejudice or harassment. This is a space where everyone should feel safe and respected, no matter who they are.
If you make someone feel otherwise, you won’t be training here again—no debate, no second chances. If you experience or witness anything that crosses a line, speak to a coach or use our reporting form. We take it seriously, and we’ll handle it.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Brazilian jiu jitsu is a close-contact sport that relies on mutual trust and respect. Any form of inappropriate language, behaviour, or physical conduct that violates that trust will not be tolerated.
This includes (but is not limited to) sexual comments, unwanted advances, inappropriate contact, or any behaviour that makes another person feel uncomfortable or unsafe- even if it’s framed as a joke.
SAFE TRAINING
We all share the mat, and it’s our collective responsibility to keep it as safe as possible. That means being aware of your surroundings at all times, especially when standing or moving dynamically. If you're too close to another pair, create space before continuing—this applies to everyone, regardless of rank.
We don’t run a hierarchy system, and your belt colour doesn’t give you the right to deliberately collide with another pair, especially if they are mid-scramble and you are inactive. The safety of everyone on the mat always takes priority over the outcome of your round.
CONSENT
You always have the right to decline a round, and you don’t owe anyone an explanation. If someone says they’re sitting out, respect that decision and ask someone else.
There is no hierarchy when it comes to consent. You can ask anyone to roll, regardless of belt, and you can say no to anyone, regardless of belt. Mutual respect is the baseline for every interaction on the mat.
BANNED TECHNIQUES
Unless specified, we generally train an all-subs legal format for all belts, but that doesn’t mean anything goes. If there’s a submission or position you’re not comfortable with, tell your partner. Communication is part of your skillset—use it.
Some things are off-limits, full stop:
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No jumping guard, scissor takedowns or flying submissions. At no point should both your feet leave the ground to initiate.
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No slams. If you’re not strong enough to put someone down gently, you’re not strong enough to pick them up.
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When standing, no throwing your weight into someone’s knees and pulling them backwards.
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This should go without saying but no strikes, kicks, fish hooks, or eye gouges.
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No slamming submissions on without giving your partner time to tap.
INJURIES
Grappling is a full-contact combat sport, and accidents can sometimes happen no matter how careful we are. If a first aid incident occurs, to you or someone in your vicinity on the mat, stop training immediately and inform a member of staff.
If you have an injury you are working around, it is your responsibility to communicate this to your training partners and reiterate before each and every round. BJJ historically has a culture of training through injuries, something we do not want to encourage here, and we reserve the right to respectfully tell you to go home if we think you’re being silly.
INCIDENT REPORTING
If you’ve witnessed or experienced something that doesn’t sit right with you, we want to know! All our staff are trained in safeguarding in sport and are always available to listen and support you.
If you’d prefer not to speak in person, you can use the confidential incident reporting form.
We take all reports seriously and will handle them with care and professionalism.
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