Swimmers Clinic Safeguarding Policy

Introduction At Swimmers Clinic, we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of everyone who participates in our activities. We strive to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all swimmers, coaches, volunteers, and families. This policy outlines our responsibilities in compliance with relevant legislation and guidance and ensures that concerns are responded to effectively and appropriately.

Young swimmers and adults engage with Swimmers Clinic in various ways, including training sessions, competitions, and community events. It is our duty to ensure that all participants feel safe, respected, and supported at all times. We are dedicated to maintaining a culture of protection, trust, and transparency in everything we do.

Scope

This policy applies to all staff, coaches, volunteers, and any individuals working with or on behalf of Swimmers Clinic. Everyone involved in our activities must be aware of this policy and understand their role in safeguarding swimmers.

This policy will be introduced at induction and will be reviewed regularly to ensure compliance with safeguarding best practices.

Equality & Diversity

Swimmers Clinic is committed to ensuring the welfare of all individuals involved in our activities, regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or any other factor. We believe every swimmer has the right to feel safe and be protected from any form of harm or abuse.

Legislation and Guidance

This policy is underpinned by key laws and statutory guidance, including:

The Human Rights Act 1998
Data Protection Act 2018 (GDPR)
Protection of Freedoms Act 2012
Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015
Sexual Offences Act 2003
Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003
Modern Slavery Act 2015
Domestic Abuse Act 2021
Children Acts 1989 & 2004
Care Act 2014

Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023)
Swim England/Child Protection in Sport Unit Standards

Policies & Procedures to Prevent Harm

To ensure safeguarding measures are upheld, Swimmers Clinic implements the following policies and procedures:

Recruitment and Selection Policy (including background checks for staff and volunteers)
Code of Conduct for Coaches and Staff
Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures
Data Protection Policy
Safeguarding Procedures for Training & Events
Photography and Social Media Guidelines
Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for Lost or Found Children
Whistleblowing Policy
Equality and Diversity Policy

Our Commitment to Safeguarding

Swimmers Clinic is committed to:

Ensuring the safety and welfare of all children and adults who participate in our training and events.
Providing equal protection to all individuals, regardless of background or
Taking all allegations and suspicions of harm seriously and responding swiftly and
Collaborating with external safeguarding agencies, sharing information when required, and involving parents/carers when necessary.
Ensuring all staff and volunteers adhere to the Code of Conduct and undergo appropriate training.
Providing ongoing safeguarding training and supervision to ensure staff can identify and respond to safeguarding concerns appropriately.
Supporting staff and volunteers through training and, where necessary, counselling
Upholding high professional standards that build confidence and trust among swimmers and families.
Regularly reviewing and updating our safeguarding practices to reflect best practices and lessons learned.
Appointing Designated Safeguarding Officers (DSOs) to oversee policy implementation and provide support where needed.
Ensuring all hiring organisations, clubs, and partners comply with basic safeguarding