To all members, participants, and stakeholders in the British Ju-Jitsu community,
The British Ju-Jitsu Association Governing Body (BJJAGB) is dedicated to fostering a positive and inclusive cultural change within our organisation, reflecting the evolving landscape of our society. Our goal is to create a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone involved in ju-jitsu by maximising our reach both geographically and demographically. We appreciate the feedback and guidance from the Home Country Sports Councils, which can only enhance our service.
We acknowledge that the BJJAGB has not always got things right in the past and that there have been shortcomings in our organisational culture and practices that have hindered our ability to fully embrace the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion. It is essential to recognise these past issues to understand why the actions outlined in this statement are necessary.
Our Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Action Plan outlines our commitment to improving internal structures and systems to promote inclusion and equality, diversifying our membership, enhancing success for all members, and improving the experience of inclusion and belonging. We welcome feedback or suggestions from our members, participants, and stakeholders through our newly established reporting structure to help achieve these goals.
The EDI Action Plan details specific steps and initiatives to foster a more inclusive environment by addressing barriers and biases, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, feels valued and respected. The plan includes mechanisms for tracking progress towards our EDI goals, with regular reviews to identify areas for improvement and celebrate achievements.
Our Reporting Structure has been implemented to help the board understand the diverse experiences within our community. We are committed to listening to and learning from our members to better understand their unique perspectives and needs. Our development plan aims for authentic representation in all decision-making processes by broadening our Boards diversity and promoting balanced decision-making that centers on the communities and people we serve, thereby increasing our legitimacy and impact.
By continuing to embed these principles and actions into the fabric of our organisation, the BJJAGB aims to create a culture that celebrates diversity, promotes inclusivity, and ensures that every individual feels valued and respected.
We are committed to working collaboratively with the Home Country Sports Councils, our members, participants, stakeholders, and the wider community to achieve these goals. Together, we can continue to make British Ju-Jitsu a sport where everyone can thrive and enjoy their journey.
Martin Dixon
Professor, The British Ju Jitsu Association GB.
British Ju Jitsu Association GB (BJJAGB)
Board Meeting Minutes
Date: 10th July 2025
Time: 10:30 AM
Platform: Zoom
1. Attendance & Apologies
Attendees:
- Martin Dixon – Chairman
- Claire Fitzgerald – Vice Chair
- Sheila Dixon – General Secretary
- Paul McKelvey – Treasurer
- Janice Angotti – Director of Memberships
- Mark Fitzgerald – Director of Safeguarding
- Michael Holden – Director of Clean Sports
- Mia Bellusova – Director of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI)
- Gareth Horgan – Regional Director, Scotland and Wales
- Eric Baskind – Legal Advisor
- Ian Arbon – Competition Director
- James Pape – Disciplinary Director
- Stephen Black – Northern Ireland Director
- Kenneth Blundell – National Tutor Coach
Apologies:
- Paul Geoghegan
2. MP Statements & Media Enquiries
Discussion:
Chairman Martin Dixon (MD) sought legal advice from Eric Baskind (EB) regarding recent statements by the MP for Bradford and media enquiries. EB noted the allegations were not new and largely repeated earlier claims. He recommended issuing a response rather than ignoring them.
Actions:
- A draft response letter/press release was prepared and circulated post-meeting for board input.
- A final version was agreed with the Chairman and sent to Sport England at 16:30 on the day of the meeting.
- The letter was also sent to two reporters at 07:20 on Friday, 11th July to meet their deadline.
3. Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Update
Presented by: Mia Bellusova
Summary:
The EDI Working Group completed the Moving to Inclusion diagnostic, required for continued recognition. The results were discussed in May to identify both known and new areas for improvement.
Key Scores from the Report:
- Overall Score: 59%
- Culture: 65%
- Leadership: 55%
- Experience: 53%
- Relationship: 62%
- Communication: 62%
Actions & Recommendations:
- Use data-driven approaches to improve diversity outcomes.
- Collect member feedback through Google Forms and course evaluations.
- Include EDI content in coaching courses.
- Require feedback forms to be completed before candidates leave coaching courses.
- Provide resources to support coaches in handling difficult conversations and fostering inclusivity.
- Liaise with the Membership Committee regarding communication of EDI initiatives to members.
- Propose a national communication strategy to improve club engagement and online visibility.
4. Chairman’s Personal Notes on Branding & Visibility
(Written in meeting but not discussed)
- Emphasised the importance of the BJJAGB logo and branding.
- All members and students should wear the BJJAGB badge on their gi.
- Affiliated clubs must display the BJJAGB logo on their websites with a direct link to the BJJAGB homepage.
- Reinforces the identity, regulation, and credibility of BJJAGB as the National Governing Body (NGB) of Ju Jitsu in the UK.
- Badges serve as a revenue stream for both clubs and the association.
5. Communication Structure & Social Media
Discussion:
Mia Bellusova noted a lack of structured communication between the board and clubs. There is limited collaboration and visibility among clubs.
Proposal:
- Appoint a dedicated Social Media Manager to establish a consistent online presence.
- Improve communication of news, updates, and achievements across the organisation.
6. Nest Database Rollout
Update Provided by: Helen Connolly (Nest Management)
Summary:
- System release is scheduled and under close monitoring.
- Trial accounts to be tested by Mick Holden and Helen Catterick.
- Currently, 5 out of 23 users have logged in.
- MD confirmed the system includes data export and ability to gather ethnicity data.
7. Proposal: Two Directors of Coaching
Summary by MD:
Proposal to maintain two distinct coaching director roles:
- Director of Coaching (University Sector) – overseeing university programmes (e.g. The Jiu Jitsu Foundation).
- Director of Coaching (National Sector) – responsible for NGB clubs and programmes.
Rationale:
- Supports sector-specific expertise
- Enables tailored communication and support
- Promotes strategic collaboration and inclusion
- Improves representation and growth
Board Decision:
- Proposal approved
- Chair to coordinate meetings with both directors
8. DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service) Checks
Presented by: Mike Holden
Discussion:
- Existing DBS provider was problematic. Transition to UCHECK is smoother and recommended.
- Clubs must identify designated verifiers.
- Discussion on whether to maintain the 3-year renewal period; noted that other child protection groups are reviewing this as well.
- Gareth proposed alternative handling methods for DBS.
Agreed Actions:
- All coaching course applicants must complete DBS checks.
- Applicants must register with the DBS Update Service within 2 weeks of receiving their certificate.
9. Sport England & MP Correspondence
Discussion:
- Reviewed potential actions and responses to Sport England.
- Stephen Black suggested ways to counter misinformation.
Action Agreed:
- Eric Baskind drafted a formal letter, reviewed and agreed by the board.
- Letter to be sent to the local MP to clearly state BJJAGB’s position and offer a balanced perspective.
Meeting Closed: 11:50 AM
