Swim England to review historical safeguarding cases

Swim England is to review all historic safeguarding investigations amid concerns children have been left at risk of harm.

A confidential report, seen by the BBC, found evidence some investigations were inadequate after three separate cases spanning more than a decade were analysed.

It is the latest challenge for the national governing body, which earlier this year was found to have presided over a culture of fear that allowed bullying and unsafe coaching practices to prevail.

Swim England said it could not yet confirm the number of cases to be looked at but the BBC understands it could run into hundreds, stretching back several years.

Swim England, based in Loughborough, has more than 150,000 members, many of whom are children.

Safeguarding investigations vary widely in terms of seriousness but can include 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 examine three historical cases after new information came to light to members of Swim England’s management.

The barrister concluded correct procedures had not always been followed and there was evidence some investigations could have been undermined or influenced.

They also found disciplinary processes had not always been used, which could “send a signal that complaints are not being taken seriously” and “reduce the likelihood of complainants coming forward”.

The expert said a review of all cases would be “time consuming, challenging to implement and costly” but was necessary “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 it rebranded in 2017.

The number of cases to be looked will be determined at a forthcoming meeting, but is expected to include investigations from the ASA days.

Some cases have already been independently reviewed, including the probe that led to the closure of Ellesmere College Titans.

The Titans’ former home, Ellesmere College in Shropshire, has recently had an application to affiliate a new swimming academy approved after another independent barrister found the culture had changed and children felt safe.

Swim England has come under fire in recent years following multiple swimmers making allegations of mistreatment, bullying, emotional abuse and weight-shaming.

A listening review gauging opinions of thousands of Swim England members concluded extreme competitiveness led to an “ongoing and systemic” culture of fear at all levels of aquatic sports and was a major threat to its future.

The governing body has recently overhauled its safeguarding operation, 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 organisation said a special board meeting would take place 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.