Swim England Issues Pool Reopening Guidelines With Pledge To Lobby Leaders For A Return-To-Water Date

Swim England has issue Pool Reopening Guidance but waits yet for a date on which pools can actually reopen - Photo Courtesy: Swimming England, Guidelines ragout

Swim England has issued its five key Pool Reopening Guidelines to clubs, teachers, those running and attending lessons, pool operators and users but will continue to lobby the UK Government for a date when facilities can actually open and put the new guidance into practice after easing of COVID-19 lockdown measures stretches beyond a core of 30 or so elite athletes.

“While the guidance contains vital information on how to reopen facilities, unfortunately it doesn’t include the key date on when pools can open. We will continue to lobby the Government for a reopening date but, ultimately, we have to be guided by them on this,” said Swim England CEO Jane Nickerson, adding:

“There has been plenty of Covid-19 guidance produced but we have not simply followed other country’s leads on this. Our dedicated staff have worked tirelessly to create robust recommendations that are fit for purpose and cover all aspects of aquatic activity. It’s a living, breathing document that will be regularly updated but we hope it gives our members, clubs, teachers, coaches, swim schools and pool operators the clarity they need to move forward together as a sector – safely and confidently.”

The Swim England guidance specifically covers the use of the pool, the organisation noted, adding that “All advice around leisure centre’s wider space – such as reception and changing rooms – will be issued by the Government at a later date.”

Swim England Pool Reopening Guidelines

The Five Returning to Pool guidance documents:

In a statement, Swim England, the former ASA, noted that its Pool Reopening Guidelines were “produced in collaboration with experts from across the sector”. She added:

“Pool users will have to adapt to a ‘new normal’ to ensure the safety of everyone visiting and working at facilities. Included in the five detailed documents are robust recommendations for operators, casual swimmers, lane swimming, family-fun sessions, club activity, teachers and those attending swimming lessons.

“The guidance is based on the latest scientific advice and Government guidelines and will be updated to reflect any changes announced in the future. It has been developed following lengthy consultation with Public Health England, Sport England, leisure operators, home country partners and a panel of representatives from clubs, swim schools, volunteers and other key stakeholders across the country, including medical professionals.”

Nickerson said: “Our first priority remains the safety of everyone involved in our sports, be they participants, leisure centre staff, coaches or volunteers.

“When pools reopen, it will not be a case of ‘business as usual’ and we know that things will have to be different. However, if we are to play our part in protecting the NHS from another wave of Covid-19 admissions, it is important we follow the latest guidance and adjust to the new ‘normal’.

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