Swim England
Statement regarding BBC Panorama
16 May 2025The experiences that are shared as part of the Panorama programme are deeply concerning and we are grateful to those who have come forward – recognising fully the courage it takes for those individuals to speak out publicly.
We want to be clear: we are committed to meaningful and lasting change. The issues highlighted do not reflect the culture we aspire to as an organisation and for all of our sports, nor the values we stand for.
At the end of last year, we launched our new strategy with a commitment to lead and serve an aquatics community to enable safe, enjoyable and successful experiences. Creating a safe environment for everyone is not only a priority – it is a responsibility we take seriously.
Cultural transformation is essential, and it must be grounded in our core values which includes doing what is right for all those who take part in our sports at every level.
In 2024, a new CEO took leadership of Swim England. We also published the Listening Report, which was a pivotal moment for everybody associated with Swim England.
It gave us absolute clarity and a clear focus on how we must improve and became the foundation to our new approach and strategy. As part of this work, we have also now commissioned a review of historical cases spanning two decades.
We have also invested in a digital safeguarding case management system and continue to invest into improved digital systems, educational resources, as well as training and support.
We believe everyone in aquatics should be free from the risk of harm so that they can experience the joy of participating. Abuse, mistreatment, harm, and a culture of fear have no place in our sports.
If anyone has any concerns past or present, we urge them to come forward. Please get in touch with our Safeguarding & Welfare team or the police if it is of a criminal nature.
As an activity and sport enjoyed by millions of people each week, swimming can have such a positive and uplifting impact on individuals, communities and the health of the nation. We would like to thank those within our community, and beyond, who give positive experiences every day and thank them for supporting us on this important journey of change.
We will continue to be transparent about our progress and remain accountable as we move forward.
Joint statement on behalf of Swim England, Aquatics GB, Scottish Swimming and Swim Wales
We are united in our commitment to ensuring a safe and inclusive environment across every level of our community – from grassroots participation to elite performance.
We acknowledge that individuals within our sporting community have experienced suffering and poor experiences and we recognise the collective ongoing need to do better.
Progress is being made and we will continue to work together to ensure that aquatics is a safe sport for everyone through effective policies, and a positive embedded culture.
It is a fundamental responsibility we uphold with unwavering dedication to all individuals involved in our sport.
If you are affected by any of the issues raised in the programme, reach out to our Safeguarding team at [email protected] or call 01509 640700 (option 1 for Swim England and then Option 5 for safeguarding). Alternatively, access additional support below.
Childline
Childline is free, private and confidential and exists to help and support anyone under 19 in the UK with any issues they’re going through. Children and young people can talk about anything with trained counsellors to support them any time of the day or night. You can talk to Childline on the phone, by email or through 1-2-1 counsellor chat. Call Childline on 0800 1111 or go to www.childline.org.uk for advice and support.
Mind
Mind is a charity providing help and support to anyone experiencing a mental health problem and actively campaigns to raise awareness, improve services and promote understanding. Further information and links and numbers to helplines can be found on Mind’s website.