British Aikido Board

The umbrella organisation for Aikido.  Clubs and associations nationwide.  See website for details. 

The British Aikido Board is recognised by Sports England, formerly known as the British Sports Council as the only governing body for Aikido in the United Kingdom.

The constituted purpose of the British Aikido Board is to further the advancement of all styles of Aikido in the United Kingdom and to establish and monitor standards of safety and behaviour conducive to the safety of practitioners of Aikido.

The Board also acts as an agent for insurance which is compulsory for both students and instructors. It also promotes a nationally recognised coaching scheme and is currently developing standards for the National Vocational Qualifications.

The Board's Executive Committee controls the administration of insurance and coaching and promotes a code of conduct and other rules to ensure control and regulation; it also frames future policy and direction based on changing circumstances and legislation arising both in the UK and through the European Community.

The Board itself, is an association not club based vehicle; the membership ranges from national to regionally based associations. Member associations remain independent both technically and financially. Currently there are over 350 instructors holding current Coaching Awards and over 9,500 members representing over 30 associations.

It is hoped that all Aikido groups within the United Kingdom will eventually join together under this "Aikido Umbrella".