Code of Conduct

We are affiliated to Swim England, and we are expected to conduct our activities within the rules of the Association. These rules include the Swim England Code of Conduct, Code of Ethics and an Equity Policy. The club follows the following “Code of Behaviour” which we ask our members to follow. We would ask you to therefore to read each category carefully so you know what is expected of you as a member of our club.

A. Code of Behaviour for All Club Members

All members of the club are expected to:

Conduct themselves responsibly and with integrity at all times when representing the club.
Treat others with respect and dignity, valuing individual differences regardless of gender, age, ability, background, belief or identity.
Act fairly, courteously and honestly in all interactions with fellow members, officials, volunteers and visitors.
Take responsibility for their own actions and behaviour.
Support the club’s aim of providing a high-quality swimming environment that is safe, welcoming and enjoyable.
Follow the rules, policies and procedures of the club, Swim England and any governing bodies relevant to the sport.
Avoid using their involvement with the club to promote personal views or behaviour that conflict with the values of the club.
Not engage in verbal abuse, physical intimidation, harassment or threatening behaviour of any kind.
Behave in a way that reflects positively on the club and does not risk bringing it into disrepute.

B. Swimmers’ Code of Behaviour

Respect for Others

As a swimmer and club member, you are expected to:

Show respect to fellow swimmers, coaches, officials, volunteers and spectators.
Recognise and respect the effort, ability and development of teammates and competitors.
Compete within the rules of the sport and accept officials’ decisions respectfully, using formal channels if clarification is required.
Challenge and report unacceptable behaviour rather than ignoring it.

Personal Conduct

Swimmers are expected to:

Commit fully to training and competition, making a genuine effort for both personal improvement and team success.
Communicate openly with coaches regarding illness, injury or anything affecting their ability to train or compete.
Arrive in good time for training sessions and be prepared to start promptly.
Listen carefully to coaching instruction and behave appropriately on poolside at all times.
Use suitable language and manage behaviour and emotions in a way that is respectful and appropriate in public settings.
Refrain from alcohol, smoking and vaping if under the legal age.
Not use banned substances or performance-enhancing drugs and take responsibility for checking any medication they use complies with Swim England and anti-doping regulations.

Appearance and Equipment

Swimmers should take pride in their appearance and wear club kit when required, in line with guidance from coaching staff.
Clothing and presentation should always be appropriate to the activity and setting.
Team Expectations
Swimmers are expected to:
Contribute positively to team culture, supporting teammates and working cooperatively with staff.
Be punctual and reliable for all training sessions, competitions and team events.
Use team transport and accommodation arrangements where these are organised by the club.
Attend team meetings, briefings and activities when representing the club and comply with any agreed curfews.

Breaches and Sanctions

Any breach of this Code may be addressed initially by coaching staff. More serious or repeated issues may be referred to the Club Committee or Disciplinary Panel for further action, in line with club procedures.

C. Coaches and Poolside Staff Code of Behaviour

Professional Conduct

All coaches and poolside staff are expected to:

Maintain a professional manner and appearance at all times while on poolside or representing the club.
Act as positive role models, recognising the influence their behaviour has on swimmers.
Not consume alcohol or smoke while responsible for the supervision or welfare of swimmers.
Avoid situations where they are alone and unobserved with a swimmer under 18, and always act in a transparent and accountable manner.

Relationships with Swimmers

Coaches and staff must:

Treat all swimmers equally and fairly, without discrimination of any kind.
Provide feedback in a constructive, supportive and appropriate way, avoiding humiliation, excessive criticism or punishment-based practices.
Involve swimmers in decisions that affect them wherever appropriate.
Be mindful of the position of trust they hold and ensure relationships with swimmers remain professional at all times.

Coaching Responsibility and Commitment

Coaches are expected to:

Support swimmers’ long-term development, placing wellbeing and enjoyment alongside performance.
Ensure training activities are appropriate to the swimmer’s age, experience, ability and physical and emotional development.
Promote mutual respect between swimmers and encourage positive behaviour within squads.
Help swimmers develop independence, responsibility and accountability for their own actions and performance.
Respect swimmers’ right to seek advice or support from other qualified professionals where appropriate.