Swim England issues face coverings update following Government announcement

Swim England is strongly encouraging athletes, coaches, teachers, volunteers and spectators to wear face coverings where possible following the announcement of additional Covid restrictions by the Government.

The Government’s ‘Plan B’ announcement was made around face coverings, working from home and Covid passports for large events in a bid to slow down the spread of the Omicron strain of coronavirus.

Sporting events can continue and the Swim England Water Polo National Age Group Championships at Ponds Forge on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 December is still scheduled to go ahead as planned.

Swim England is still awaiting the Government to publish its full guidance about what the changes mean before updating its own guidance.

A Swim England spokesperson said: “The Government lists the settings where people are exempt from wearing a face covering and it includes gyms and exercise facilities.

Safety highest priority

“However, we would strongly encourage athletes, coaches, volunteers and spectators in school year 7 and above to wear a face covering to indoor swimming lessons, training sessions and competitions when they are not physically competing, training, teaching or coaching, unless they are medically exempt.

“Officials should also wear a face covering if their role allows them to do so.

“We understand the challenges this will place on our clubs but the safety of everyone involved in our sports must remain the highest priority.”

The rules on face coverings come into force today – Friday 10 December – and further details are available on the Government’s website by clicking here.