Safeguarding Policy around the use of mobile phones and or digital devices in changing rooms and is to be implemented with immediate effect.

Hi All

 

We have received an urgent update following an Extra-Ordinary Safeguarding Meeting by the Regional Welfare Officer late this afternoon. This update relates to the Safeguarding Policy around the use of mobile phones and or digital devices in changing rooms and is to be implemented with immediate effect.

Please see below an extract from the email with Key Concerns and Actions Requires

 

Key Concerns:

• There has been a significant rise in cases where mobile phones have been used to take indecent images, particularly covertly recording individuals by placing phones over or under cubicles, this is affecting predominantly female swimmer;
• Most incidents have taken place at competitions where there are mixed sex changing rooms, highlighting the urgent need for stricter oversight at these events.
• Many clubs have failed to report incidents correctly, assuming internal action or police involvement was sufficient.
• Victims report feeling scared, embarrassed, and even considering leaving the sport due to these serious violations.

Action Required:

• Enforce a Zero-Tolerance Policy – No mobile phones or digital devices in changing areas during Swim England-regulated activities.
•  Immediate Reporting is Mandatory – Any suspected or confirmed incident involving indecent images or upskirting must be reported to:
• The Swim England Safeguarding & Welfare Team
• The Police (if a crime has been committed)
• The Leisure Centre Management (through a member of the Events Team)

 

To confirm – NO MOBILE PHONES OR DIGITAL DEVICES ARE TO BE TAKEN INTO CHANGING ROOMS AT COUNTY COMPETITIONS. In view of the seriousness of this any swimmer violating this instruction will be removed from the competition with immediate effect.

 

Please ensure  that this is passed on to all swimmers urgently,  emphasising the serious consequences of their actions should this instruction be ignored. We are requesting, for the safety of all swimmers, that Coaches and Team Managers ensure that this is enforced over the remainder of the County Competition.

 

Thank you in advance  for your co-operation 

 

The Events Team