Reporting abuse in pole dancing spaces

Pole dancing attracts people from all backgrounds, and the vast majority of spaces are welcoming and respectful. When something crosses the line—harassment, coercion, unsafe teaching or behaviour that makes you feel uncomfortable—you have the right to speak up. This page covers what counts as abuse in pole contexts, how to report it, and where to turn for support. Cumbria Pole Art believes everyone should train in safety.

Behaviour that crosses the line

Abuse in pole dancing takes several forms. Physical abuse includes inappropriate touching, forced spotting without consent, or teaching methods that ignore pain signals. Verbal abuse covers unwanted comments about your body, sexual remarks, or persistent pressure to wear less clothing than you're comfortable with. Emotional abuse might look like intimidation, isolating you from other students, or undermining your progress.

Financial exploitation happens when instructors demand payment for private sessions you didn't request, or when a studio locks you into contracts with hidden fees. Unsafe teaching—skipping warm-ups, pushing advanced moves before you're ready, or ignoring equipment faults—puts your body at risk and counts as neglect.

Documenting what happened

Write down what occurred as soon as you can. Note the date, time, location, and names of anyone involved or present. Record what was said or done, in as much detail as you remember. If there are messages, photos, or videos, save them. If you were injured, photograph any bruising or swelling and keep medical records.

This record helps you recall events clearly later, especially if you decide to report formally. You don't need to know yet whether you'll use it—having the information gives you options.

Reporting within a studio or class

Most studios have a complaints process. Ask the studio manager or owner how to submit a written complaint. Put your account in an email, name the person involved, and state what you want—a refund, a change of instructor, or a policy review.

If the complaint is about the owner, or if the studio dismisses your concern, you've exhausted that route. At that point, external reporting becomes the next step.

External bodies and authorities

Pole dancing in the UK has no single regulatory body, but other avenues exist. If the behaviour was criminal—assault, stalking, or theft—report it to the police by calling the non-emergency number or visiting a station. If it involved a breach of contract or fraudulent charges, contact Citizens Advice for guidance on small claims or trading standards.

Professional organisations such as the International Pole and Aerial Fitness Association or Pole Sports and Arts World Federation maintain codes of conduct for certified instructors. If your instructor holds a qualification through one of these, you can file a complaint directly with the certifying body. Check the studio's website or certificates on the wall for affiliations.

If the studio advertised services it didn't provide, or pressured you into a contract unfairly, report it to Trading Standards through your local council.

Support after reporting

Making a report can feel exposing. Reach out to someone you trust—a friend, family member, or another student who witnessed the behaviour. If the abuse was sexual or violent, specialist organisations offer confidential support:

• Victim Support—free, confidential help for anyone affected by crime, including harassment and assault; visit victimsupport.org.uk or call 0808 168 9111
• Rape Crisis England & Wales—support for women and girls who have experienced sexual violence; visit rapecrisis.org.uk or call 0808 500 2222
• Survivors UK—support for men and non-binary people who have experienced sexual abuse; visit survivorsuk.org or use the online chat service
• National Domestic Abuse Helpline—for anyone experiencing domestic abuse, including controlling behaviour in training relationships; call 0808 2000 247

These services do not require you to have reported to the police. They listen, offer practical advice, and help you think through your next steps without pressure.

Protecting others

Sharing your experience—whether through a review, a post in a pole community, or a quiet word with other students—helps others make informed choices. You're under no obligation to do this, and you should never feel responsible for someone else's behaviour. If you do choose to speak publicly, stick to facts you can support and avoid assumptions about intent.

Some online pole communities have reporting mechanisms for instructors or studios that members have flagged. These are informal, but they provide visibility where formal complaints have stalled.

When a studio takes your concern seriously

Good studios act quickly. They'll acknowledge your report, investigate without making you repeat your story to multiple people, and follow up with clear outcomes—whether that's disciplinary action, policy changes, or an explanation of what they found. They don't ask you to keep quiet, and they don't retaliate.

If the response feels dismissive or defensive, trust that instinct. You don't owe anyone a second chance to do the right thing.

This page is for general information only. We do not provide legal advice or represent any studio, instructor or organisation.