Safeguarding Policy

    Date: March 2024

    Definitions: for the purpose of this policy:

    • Adult: means any individual aged 18 or older
    • Child:  means any individual aged 5 -18
    • Member: means any individual participating in aquatics under the jurisdiction of Swim England, including but not limited to volunteers, teachers, adults, and parents/guardians of child members.

     

    Bubbles Swim School provides swimming lessons in an environment whereby all adults, children and members have a safe and positive experience.

    Bubbles Swim School is an affiliated member of Swim England and is committed to implementing the Swim England Safeguarding Policy and Procedures (Wavepower) https://www.swimming.org/swimengland/wavepower-updated-version/

    Wavepower’s aim is to safeguard adults, children and members in line with current legislation, regulations and guidance.

    In order to achieve this, Bubbles Swim School agrees to:

    • Adopt and implement the policies and procedures in the latest edition of Wavepower. By implementing the latest edition of Wavepower, Bubbles Swim School ensures they are following the most current guidelines and best practices for safeguarding in aquatics.
    • Recognise that all adults and children participating in lessons at Bubbles Swim School (regardless of age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, ability or disability) have a right to enjoy their involvement in aquatics in a safe environment and be protected from harm.
    • Ensure that all individuals who work with adults and children at Bubbles Swim School, whether paid or voluntary, provide a positive, safe and enjoyable experience.
    • Ensure that all individuals who work with adults and children at Bubbles Swim School have had the relevant DBS checks and understand the practices for safeguarding as outlined in Wavepower. This commitment ensures the safety and well-being of all members.
    • Provide all members of Bubbles Swim School the opportunity to raise concerns in a safe and confidential manner if they have a concern about welfare. This commitment promotes open communication and makes a supportive environment where concerns can be addressed.
    • Ensure that any safeguarding concerns, such as welfare or protection, are dealt with appropriately in accordance with the guidelines for reporting and action in Wavepower.This commitment ensures that any concerns are addressed promptly and efficiently.
    • Ensure that confidentiality is maintained appropriately and in line with the best interests of all members.
    • Ensure all information relating to safeguarding matters is stored in a safe and secure area minimising the risk of unauthorised access or breaches of confidentiality.
    • Ensure all members of staff at Bubbles Swim School understand the safeguarding responsibilities contained in Swim England’s Code of Conduct and Code of Ethics Swim England Handbook | Your full guide to Swim England rules (swimming.org)
    • Appoint a Welfare Officer who will be responsible for dealing with any safeguarding concerns and implementing the necessary procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of the individual involved. This commitment demonstrates a positive approach to safeguarding.

    If you have a question or concern, contact the Welfare Officer in the first instance.

    Welfare Officer: Sharon Hunter

    Email: sharonehunter@gmail.com

    Mobile: 07484 719283

    Alternative Contacts:

    Safeguarding and Welfare Team: 01509 640700 (Option 1 for Swim England then Option 3 for Safeguarding ) safeguarding@swimming.org

    In an Emergency:

    The Police

    NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0800 800 5000

    • Review our policy on a yearly basis. This ensures that the policy remains up-to-date, aligns with current best practices and addresses any emerging concerns or changes in legislation.

    Promoting Good Practice

    In addition to following Wavepower, Bubbles Swim School staff are committed to:

    • Treating adults, children and members equally and with respect and dignity.
    • Always putting the welfare of the adult, child and member first to create a safe and supportive environment.
    • Giving positive and constructive feedback to help adults, children and members develop their skills and confidence.
    • Being an excellent role model for adults, children and members to follow, by demonstrating professionalism, integrity and positive behaviours.
    • Always working in an open environment, avoiding private or unobserved situations. This commitment safeguards transparency and safeguards against any possible misconduct.
    • Making sport fun and enjoyable and an inclusive experience for all members.
    • Recording accurate details of any injury that occurs, together with details of any treatment given. This commitment helps ensure that appropriate care is provided and that any necessary follow-up measures are taken.