THE sister of a 12-year-old boy has spoken out on Facebook after her brother was “marched out” of a trampoline park.

On February 9, Taunton hairdresser, Billie Jacobs was with family and friends at Flip Out Somerset, Chelston Business Park, when her younger brother was escorted off the activity area because he had Down’s Syndrome.

Billie said: “The reason given for dramatically marching a child off? He has Down's Syndrome.

“This quite obviously riled us, embarrassed my brother, but also caused a scene for all others to spectate.

“Why was this suddenly a problem? After over halfway through, now it was a problem?”

Billie claimed that staff members also made derogatory comments, with some younger staff allegedly sneering and following the group during their session.

She said: “I even apologised to the supervisor for any misunderstanding, but I wasn't going to allow my brother to be humiliated in front of all the spectators and children.”

Ms Jacobs was visiting the activity centre to celebrate her son’s 5th birthday along with her mum, brother and other family members and friends.

They visited the venue having booked a session for 10 children and adult supervisors, signing waivers before entry. After the children had spent almost an hour playing, Billie’s 12-year-old brother was seen to be marched off the trampoline area by a male supervisor.

When asking the staff member why this was happening to her brother, Ms Jacobs was told that it was because he had Down’s Syndrome, and that he was not allowed to partake in the activity without specific paperwork.

Billie said that she had been aware that paperwork may have been needed and so had inquired upon arrival, to which she was told that only the waivers were necessary.

The team at Flip Out said that due to an escalation in events, the police were then contacted.

Avon and Somerset Police have confirmed that they attended the incident.

In a statement the police said: “We were called to the incident on 9 February and officers attended and spoke to all parties. No arrests were made.

They have confirmed that there is no ongoing police investigation.

A spokesperson for Flip Out Somerset said: "The health and safety of our customers is of the utmost importance to us at Flip Out Somerset. We are committed to ensuring that all our guests have a fun and safe experience at our indoor adventure park.

“When guests with Down’s Syndrome visit Flip Out Somerset, we inform them that we follow the guidelines issued by the British Gymnastics Association and the Down’s Syndrome Association.

“These guidelines recommend that, before participating in activities at Flip Out, individuals with Down’s Syndrome obtain confirmation from a GP or paediatrician that they have been screened for Atlanto-Axial Instability using the screening test developed by the British Gymnastics Association. Written approval confirming fitness to participate, signed by a GP or paediatrician, must be provided before engaging in any trampolining activities.”

They continued: “A young boy with Down’s Syndrome visited Flip Out Somerset. On this occasion, during the check-in process with his parent or guardian, our requirement for medical clearance was unfortunately not communicated. We take full responsibility for this oversight and sincerely apologise for the error.

“However, it is important to note that the parent or guardian did sign the waiver, which clearly states that medical approval is required for participation.

“While the young boy was using the equipment, a member of staff politely approached him and asked if he could direct them to his parent or guardian, which he did. As part of our duty of care to all customers, the family was asked to provide the necessary screening documentation. Unfortunately, this could not be provided at the time.

“Regrettably, the situation escalated, which led to the police being contacted.

“We want to make it absolutely clear we do not tolerate discrimination in any shape or form, and we are currently conducting an internal investigation into the various allegations that have been raised, so we currently can’t comment any further.

“We are absolutely committed to inclusivity, but we also have a responsibility to uphold the highest safety standards for all our guests.

“We deeply regret that this situation occurred. However, requesting appropriate medical certification for individuals with Down’s Syndrome is the only way we can ensure their safety and that of all our customers.”