Rebecca Adlington: Swim England Review A Chance For Change
Rebecca Adlington says the review into safeguarding and Swim England culture offers a chance for change and a positive future.
The review – commissioned early last year – by The Behavioural Architects spoke to more than 1,000 people including swimmers, coaches, parents and volunteers while all Swim England members were invited to take part in an online survey which elicited more than 3,500 responses.
This included an anonymous mass listening space open to all to share views and experiences, along with a moderated online platform and interviews.
Observation sessions also took place at clubs and events, whilst workshops focused on current and former Swim England members, coaches, parents, club committee members and welfare officers.
Findings exposed a culture of fear that enabled bullying, body-shaming and a fear of being “victimised” should people come forward.
There was an “urgent need” to tackle racism within swimming with many from ethnically diverse communities feeling like they did not belong in what was viewed as a “white, middle class sport”.
Para swimmers and swimmers with special needs said they often felt overlooked and less valued than able-bodied swimmers.
While Swim England were “truly sorry” participants also called for an “external review or overhaul of those in power”.
Jane Nickerson retired as chief executive of the governing body last week with Andy Salmon, former chief executive of British Triathlon, taking over.
Adlington, who won double gold and double bronze at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics, spoke to the BBC, saying:
“Action can be taken, change can happen and it can move forward in the right way that it needs.”
She added:
“But we need to make it a positive experience, whether they’re just just doing it for friendship, physical or mental health – the club should be welcoming of that and cater to all those different athletes.”