As the competition season gets underway, Swim England North East would like to remind all clubs, coaches, team managers, parents, and athletes of the importance of following Swim England’s policies to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone involved in our sport.
We all have a shared responsibility to uphold the highest standards of safeguarding, welfare, and conduct, both on and off the poolside. Please take a moment to review the key reminders below before attending upcoming events.
📱Mobile Phones and Devices in Changing Rooms
For the safety and privacy of all members, the use of mobile phones, cameras, or any device capable of taking photographs or videos is strictly prohibited in changing areas.
This applies to athletes, parents, coaches, and team staff. Please ensure devices remain securely stored while in these areas.
Please watch this powerful short film about Swim England’s ‘Keep It In Your Locker’ campaign, which highlights the policy.
👥Team Manager Ratios and Supervision
Clubs are reminded to follow the recommended Team Manager (TM) ratios when attending competitions and team trips.
- Team Managers must hold a current DBS check and have completed the Swim England Team Manager 1 course.
- We feature frequent Team Manager courses through our website if you click here.
- Adequate supervision ratios must be maintained at all times, taking into account the age, gender, and needs of the athletes.
This ensures all athletes are supported appropriately and that safeguarding standards are upheld throughout events.
Did You Know?
The minimum supervision ratios for local single day activity for athletes under 18 years of age is as follows:
- Two qualified supervisory roles (1 Coach minimum level 2 and 1 Team Manager minimum TM1) for up to 10 athletes*
- Thereafter a ratio of 1:10 must be applied.
The minimum supervision ratios for activity with an overnight stay for athletes under 18 years of age is as follows:
- Two qualified Team Managers (TM2) and one qualified coach (Level 2 or above) for up to 20 athletes**
- Thereafter a ratio of 1:10 must be applied
Full information around Team Manager, Coach and Chaperone policies are available below
🏆Enjoying Competition Respectfully
We encourage all participants such as athletes, coaches, officials, and spectators, to promote positive behaviour and respect for others. Please remember that competition environments should be enjoyable, inclusive, and encouraging for every athlete, regardless of ability or result.
📘Further Guidance
For full details on Swim England’s safeguarding, welfare, and conduct policies, please refer to:
Thank you for your continued support in keeping our sport safe, welcoming, and enjoyable for all.
