SAFEGUARDING AND WELFARE
At Garstang Gators, the safety, welfare, and wellbeing of every swimmer is our highest priority. We are proud to be a Swim England-affiliated club and fully committed to upholding the standards set out in Wavepower — Swim England’s official safeguarding policy and procedures document.
Wavepower provides a clear framework to ensure that aquatic sports are enjoyed in a safe, positive, and inclusive environment. It outlines best practices for safeguarding children and young people, and from 2024, it also includes guidance for protecting adults at risk. As a club, we adopt these policies in full and embed them into our day-to-day operations, coaching, and communication.
Our safeguarding approach is built on three pillars: protection, inclusion, and accountability. We believe every swimmer deserves to feel safe, respected, and supported — whether they’re diving into the pool for the first time or competing at county level or above.
Our Welfare Team
Garstang Gators has two dedicated Welfare Officers that act as a point of contact for any concerns related to safeguarding or wellbeing. This role is independent and impartial, and in line with Wavepower’s latest update, our Welfare Officers are not related to or in a close relationship with any coach, teacher, or committee member. This ensures transparency and trust.
Our Welfare Officers are trained in Swim England’s bespoke safeguarding course, which covers the unique challenges and responsibilities of working in an aquatic environment. They are approachable, confidential, and committed to listening and acting when needed.
Changing Room and Mobile Device Policy
Wavepower’s updated guidance prohibits the use of mobile phones or devices in changing areas during Swim England-regulated activity. This is a vital step in protecting privacy and maintaining a safe space for all swimmers. We ask parents, swimmers, and coaches to respect this rule at all times.
All coaches, teachers, and volunteers at Garstang Gators undergo enhanced DBS checks and safeguarding training.Â
From 2024, Swim England has made it mandatory for clubs to follow a full safer recruitment process for paid roles in regulated activity — and we’re proud to lead by example. We also ensure that all staff and volunteers understand their responsibilities, know how to report concerns, and are supported in creating a culture of safety and respect.
We encourage swimmers and parents to speak up if something doesn’t feel right. Whether it’s a concern about behaviour, wellbeing, or inclusion, we’re here to listen and act. Our safeguarding policies are available to download, and we regularly review them to stay aligned with best practices.
Garstang Gators is more than a swim club — we’re a community. By embracing Wavepower and putting welfare at the heart of everything we do, we ensure that every swimmer can thrive in a safe, supportive environment.
Â
