Code of Conduct   - Parents and Guardians of Swimmers Under 18

Once a swimmer is registered for a session, the Club takes responsibility for their behaviours, welfare and actions. However, it should be noted that outside of this, the swimmer and their Parent or Guardian are responsible – which is likely to include changing rooms and other parts of a leisure facility – such as foyer areas. Noting that some facilities do not allow parents into changing areas around private hire, it is important that Parents and Guardians take the time to brief their swimmer on expected behaviours.

All staff of the club should feel empowered to challenge Parents and Guardians where behaviours fall outside of this Code. We also believe that a positive ‘balcony’ culture should encourage spectators to challenge each other in a respectful way where behaviours are inappropriate.

This Code relates to the Parent or Guardian of any swimmer registered at the Club, where the swimmer is aged under 18 years. Separate Codes are published for swimmers both 18 and under and over 18, and for Coaches and workforce of the club.

As a Parent or Guardian, you are expected to, and have the right to:-

• Be aware of the Swim England ‘Wavepower’ guidance and how to access it;
• Know who the Club Welfare Officers are and how to contact them in case of any concerns of a safeguarding nature, knowing that any issues raised will be listened and responded to appropriately;
• Trust that anyone training or looking after your child at a club activity has the appropriate qualifications, checks and training and be comfortable to ask questions to remain assured;
• Know how to access the club policies, rules and procedures including the club complaints process and who to contact;
• Provide your consent (or decline) to photography and trips when requested;
• Support your swimmer to ensure that they are prompt for sessions and have the correct kit as noted in the Squad Movement Process (this does not mean packing their kit for them!);
• Let the club know if there are any physical or emotional needs which may affect the swimmer’s ability to train or compete;
• Not enter poolside or interrupt training or competitions unless in an emergency situation;

• Respect the decisions made by your child’s coach or teacher and encourage your swimmer to build their own relationship with their Coach for feedback and development;
• Behave positively as a spectator at training or competitions and treat others with respect – not comment on other swimmers’ bodies or performance and not compare athletes;
• Not berate your child for perceived poor performance or scrutinise their performance (the only questions you should be asking are, “Did you enjoy yourself?” or “Are you proud of yourself?”)

• Understand that the use of abusive or inappropriate language, bullying, physical violence or any other behaviour which hurts others will not be tolerated at the club.

Breaches of this Code of Conduct will result in disciplinary action being taken against you by the club committee, which may include exclusion from the club. Any behaviour which may be a criminal offence will be reported to Police and any other relevant authority, by the club.