Swim England to Conduct Review of Historical Safeguarding Investigations

Swim England is set to undertake a review of all its past safeguarding investigations amidst concerns that children may have been exposed to harm. A confidential report, viewed by the BBC, revealed evidence that some investigations were inadequate after an analysis of three distinct cases spanning over a decade. This represents the latest challenge for the national governing body, which earlier this year was found to have overseen a culture of fear that allowed bullying and unsafe coaching practices to persist. Swim England stated it could not yet confirm the total number of cases to be examined, but the BBC understands this figure could extend to hundreds, covering incidents from several years ago. Swim England, headquartered in Loughborough, has a membership exceeding 150,000 individuals, many of whom are children. Safeguarding inquiries vary significantly in their seriousness but can encompass everything from inappropriate photos or videos of young members to poor or dangerous training methods, bullying, and emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. An independent barrister was appointed to scrutinize three historical cases after new information came to the attention of Swim England’s management. The barrister concluded that correct procedures had not consistently been followed, and there was evidence that some investigations could have been compromised or influenced. They also found that disciplinary processes had not always been utilized, which could “send a signal that complaints are not being taken seriously” and “reduce the likelihood of complainants coming forward.” The expert indicated that a review of all cases would be “time consuming, challenging to implement and costly” but was essential “to help ensure the sport provides a safe environment for those who are vulnerable to harm.” They added: “I am concerned that unless Swim England carries out a comprehensive independent review of previous cases there is a risk that harm may continue to exist where it could otherwise have been prevented.” The barrister concluded that a review should “focus on but not be limited to cases that are serious and on cases where disciplinary action was not taken when it ought to have been taken” and determine if any reinvestigation is needed. Swim England, the governing body for swimming, diving, water polo, open water swimming, and artistic swimming, was known as the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) until its rebranding in 2017. The number of cases to be examined will be decided at an upcoming meeting, but it is anticipated to include investigations from the ASA era. Some cases have already undergone independent review, including the inquiry that led to the closure of Ellesmere College Titans. Ellesmere College in Shropshire, the former home of the Titans, recently had an application to affiliate a new swimming academy approved after another independent barrister determined that the culture had changed and children felt safe. Swim England has faced criticism in recent years following multiple swimmers’ allegations of mistreatment, bullying, emotional abuse, and weight-shaming. A listening review, which gathered opinions from thousands of Swim England members, concluded that extreme competitiveness fostered an “ongoing and systemic” culture of fear at all levels of aquatic sports and posed a major threat to its future. The governing body has recently revamped its safeguarding operations, making a commitment to “create a culture and environment in our sports that makes everyone feel safe, included and welcomed at all times.” A spokesperson for the organization stated that a special board meeting would convene to discuss the scope of the recommended review, which “will lay out our course of action in relation to historical matters.” “We remain wholeheartedly dedicated to listening, learning and evolving to help create a safe sport for all,” they added.