Dear Members, Coaches, and Club Officials
The English Karate National Governing Body (EKNGB) is pleased to announce the introduction of formal governance and compliance requirements for First Aid provision across associations and clubs for the first time.
This important development recognises the responsibility we all share to protect the safety and wellbeing of our members and aligns closely with our safeguarding obligations. Karate is a dynamic sport, and appropriate First Aid knowledge is essential to ensure a safe training and competition environment.
To support this initiative, EKNGB has partnered with the internationally recognised SEF First Aid Assistance, led by Simon Ferris, who has advised the Resuscitation Council UK on education and inclusivity. This partnership ensures that our approach is credible, inclusive, and aligned with best practice.
EKNGB Karate First Aid Programme
- The EKNGB Karate First Aid programme:
- Covers sport-specific First Aid topics relevant to karate
- Follows current European Resuscitation Council (ERC) and Resuscitation Council UK (RCUK) protocols
- Includes an understanding of Emotional Intelligence, helping coaches recognise why and how people may react in emergency situations
First Aid Requirements for Coaches
All coaches are required to hold an appropriate level of First Aid training. Completion of the EKNGB Karate First Aid programme is not mandatory, and the following qualifications are acceptable as evidence of compliance:
- Paediatric First Aid
- Emergency First Aid at Work
First Aid at Work
However, it is important to note that Paediatric First Aid and Emergency First Aid at Work courses do not include recognition of heart attack or head injury signs and symptoms. Coaches holding these qualifications are therefore expected to ensure they are competent in these areas due to their relevance within karate.
Course Delivery and Access
To support our members:
- Courses will be delivered at regional venues
- Clubs may also host courses at their own venues
- Clubs are encouraged to invite coaches and volunteers from other clubs to attend, helping to build safer karate communities locally and nationally
Register Your Interest
To register your interest or to request further information, please contact our partners directly at:
training@seffirstaidassistance.co.uk
This initiative represents a significant step forward in raising standards, improving safety, and supporting coaches and volunteers with the confidence and skills they need. We strongly encourage all clubs to engage with this programme and help embed a culture of safety and preparedness across English Karate.
English Karate National Governing Body (EKNGB) Committed to Safety, Standards, and Safeguarding.