Late Collection of Children

Occasionally, parents/guardians may be delayed in collecting their child from training or after an event. In such cases, they should inform the appropriate officer of the organisation as soon as possible and agree on a course of action.

1. Concerns About Collection

If a parent/guardian appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the organisation should seek advice from the Police or Children's Social Care before releasing the child.

2. Emergency Procedures

If a child is not collected on time and no contact has been made by the parent/guardian, the organisation should:

1. Attempt to reach emergency contacts listed for the child.
2. Ask the child for any additional contact numbers if those fail.
3. After 20 minutes without success, seek advice from the Police, Children's Social Care, or MASH (Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub).
4. If emergency transport is required, two DBS-checked adults should transport the child. The child must sit in the back seat.
5. Do not leave a child alone unless over 16 and prior consent has been given by the parent/guardian.
6. Two responsible adults (preferably DBS-checked) should remain with the child until collected.

3. Prohibited Actions

• Do not ask the child to wait in a vehicle alone.
• Do not send the child home with anyone without parental permission.

4. Repeated Incidents

Repeated late collection without prior notice may indicate a failure in parental duty of care. The Welfare Officer and another representative should meet with the parent/guardian to discuss concerns and offer support.

If the issue continues, contact should be made with Swim England's Safeguarding and Welfare Team, Children's Social Care, or the MASH Team for further guidance.