Swim England, the governing body for swimming in England, is making waves in promoting inclusivity and development within the aquatics community. With a series of events and initiatives aimed at enhancing diversity, safeguarding, and judge training, Swim England is committed to making aquatic sports more accessible to all.

Inclusive Club Guide

Swim England has taken a significant step towards fostering diversity and inclusion in aquatic sports with its Inclusive Club Guide. This resource, continually updated, is designed to assist clubs in formulating their Diversity and Inclusion Action Plans. The guide aims to break down barriers and create a more inclusive environment for all. Clubs can access this valuable resource through Element 3 templates on the SwimMark portal or by visiting Swim England’s website here.

Safeguarding Refresher Module

Swim England is ensuring the safety of its participants with a new Safeguarding refresher module, titled ‘Mobile devices in the Sport setting.’ This module covers essential topics like online safety and appropriate internet use, providing guidance for clubs and members. To access this critical CPD module, along with other supporting CPDs, please visit Swim England’s qualifications website.

DBS and Safeguarding Requirements

In a commitment to safeguarding and welfare, Swim England has introduced changes effective from January 1, 2024. Any coach or teacher whose Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and safeguarding certifications expire will not be allowed poolside unsupervised. Detailed information regarding these changes can be found in Wavepower 2024.

Artistic Swimming

For those involved in Artistic Swimming, important updates and training opportunities await. The last Artistic Swimming Judge WA update session is scheduled for October 15, from 4-7 pm. Judges who have not yet attended a session can still register here.

Additionally, Swim England is offering Judge courses to enhance the skills and knowledge of aspiring judges:

Judge 1 – November 23 and 28 (Zoom) – Register here.
Judge 2 – December 3 (Face to Face venue TBC) – Register here.
Judge 3 – December 3 (Face to Face venue TBC) – Register here.

For those interested in training to become an Artistic Swimming referee, please email volunteering@swimming.org for more information.

Club and Operator Working Together Webinars

Swim England is promoting collaboration between clubs and operators through a series of webinars. Mark your calendars for these dates:

Thursday, November 2 – 7.30 pm to 8.30 pm
Tuesday, November 14 – 12.30 pm to 1.30 pm
Thursday, November 30 – 7.30 pm to 8.30 pm

Further information and registration details can be found here. Swim England encourages everyone to share this information with their respective clubs, as these webinars promise to be valuable for the swimming community.

Swim England’s dedication to inclusivity, safety, and education highlights its commitment to enhancing the world of aquatic sports in England. Join them in their mission to create a more accessible and diverse swimming community.