Our Approach to Safety
At Excel on Skates, safety is built into every aspect of programme design and delivery.
All sessions are structured, planned and delivered using a progressive approach that allows participants to build confidence gradually in a controlled environment. Activities are designed to reduce risk while supporting participation, ensuring that individuals feel comfortable, supported and able to progress at their own pace.
We focus on creating a calm, well-managed environment where safety, confidence and participation are prioritised equally.
Structured Delivery
Programmes are delivered in structured blocks rather than one-off sessions.
This means:
- Participants build skills progressively over time
- Sessions follow a clear and consistent format
- Movement is introduced in controlled stages
- Group activity is managed and supervised throughout
This structured approach helps minimise risk while supporting confidence and engagement.
Learning to Fall Safely
A key part of all programmes is learning how to fall safely.
For many participants, particularly adults, fear of falling is one of the biggest barriers to participation. By introducing safe falling techniques early in the programme, we help to:
- Reduce anxiety
- Build confidence
- Support safe movement and recovery
Participants are guided through:
- How to fall in a controlled way
- How to protect themselves
- How to recover safely and regain balance
This approach is introduced at an appropriate level for each group and is adapted depending on the programme and participants.
Supervision and Delivery
All sessions are led by trained instructors and delivered in a structured, supervised environment.
Delivery includes:
- Clear instruction and demonstration
- Active supervision throughout sessions
- Defined activity areas where appropriate
- Group management to support safe movement
Group sizes are kept manageable to ensure that participants receive appropriate guidance and support.
For family sessions, additional staff support may be used to maintain safe ratios and effective supervision.
Participant Responsibilities
Participants play an important role in maintaining a safe environment.
All participants are expected to:
- Follow instructions provided during sessions
- Take part at their own pace and within their own comfort level
- Be aware of others in the space
- Wear appropriate equipment where advised
- Inform instructors of any concerns during sessions
Participants should not attempt movements beyond their confidence or ability level.
Parents and Children (Family Programmes)
For family programmes:
- Parents or caregivers remain responsible for their child at all times
- Children must remain under the supervision of their parent or caregiver
- Activities are designed to support shared participation in a controlled environment
Guidance is provided throughout to support both parent and child learning safely together.
Health and Participation
Our programmes involve light to moderate physical activity.
Participants are encouraged to:
- Take part at their own pace
- Rest where needed
- Build confidence gradually
If you have any existing health conditions, injuries, or concerns about taking part in physical activity, we recommend seeking advice from a medical professional before participating.
If you are unsure whether a programme is suitable, please contact us to discuss your individual circumstances.
Supporting Different Needs
We aim to provide inclusive and accessible programmes where possible.
Participants who may benefit from additional support are encouraged to contact us in advance so that we can:
- Understand individual needs
- Consider appropriate adjustments where possible
- Ensure a supportive and comfortable environment
While we aim to be inclusive, safety remains the priority in all sessions.
Environment and Equipment
Programmes are delivered in venues that provide suitable environments for skating activity.
This includes:
- Flat, smooth surfaces appropriate for movement on skates
- Safe, hazard-free areas
- Access to basic facilities such as toilets
Participants are responsible for ensuring that:
- Equipment used is safe and suitable
- Skates are correctly fitted
- Protective equipment is worn where appropriate or recommended
Managing Risk
While all reasonable steps are taken to reduce risk, skating is an activity that involves movement and balance, and there is an inherent risk of falls.
Risks are managed through:
- Structured session design
- Progressive learning
- Clear instruction
- Active supervision
- Controlled group activity
Participants are supported to take responsibility for their own pace and participation level.
Safeguarding
We are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all participants.
This includes:
- Delivery in open and visible environments
- Appropriate supervision during sessions
- Clear expectations for behaviour and participation
Where programmes involve children, safeguarding principles are followed and additional considerations are applied.
Questions and Support
If you have any questions about safety, participation, or suitability, please get in touch.
We are happy to discuss individual circumstances and help you decide whether a programme is right for you.