At Deepings Swimming Club, the welfare and safety of all our members is our highest priority. We are committed to providing a friendly, caring, and safe environment where everyone can enjoy swimming free from discrimination, intimidation, bullying, or abuse. Our welfare policies are guided by Swim England’s Wavepower safeguarding framework, ensuring that every swimmer, parent, coach, and volunteer feels protected, included, and supported

Wavepower is Swim England’s safeguarding policy and procedures document. Its aim is to ensure everyone is able to enjoy our sports and aquatic activity in a safe, positive and enjoyable environment in line with current legislation, regulations and guidance.

Meet Our Welfare Officer

Place Picture of Catherine here

Our Welfare Officer, Catherine Toms, is your first point of contact for any welfare or safeguarding concerns. She is independent of the coaching team and committee, ensuring impartial support for all members. You can contact Catherine confidentially at [email protected]. As as required by Wavepower 2025 V 2.1 conversations are treated with respect and discretion.

Report a concern

If you are worried about something—whether it’s about yourself, another swimmer, or something you’ve seen—please speak up. You can talk to the DSC Welfare Officer, any member of the Coaching Team, or another trusted adult. All concerns are taken seriously and handled with care. 

Referring a concern should in the first instance be done via the DSC Welfare Officer. However, if you prefer, Swim England Safeguarding team can be contacted via the form below, or by calling us on 01509 640700 (Option 1 for Swim England and then Option 5 for Safeguarding). Please leave a message if the team is unavailable and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

See something 

Listen to your child about their worries or concerns. Let them express how they feel freely and with an open mind. Watch their body language and learn what is usual and unusual behaviour for them.  

Say something 

Speak to the club or activities’ child protection, safeguarding or welfare officer to discuss your concern. 

If you’re unsure who to speak to, the NSPCC helpline can support you and advise you on what to do next - call 0808 800 5000

Codes of Conduct

DSC Codes of Conduct set out the standards of behaviour expected from all members, parents, coaches, and volunteers. We are committed to a culture of respect, fairness, and inclusion. Any concerns about bullying, abuse, or unacceptable behaviour should be reported to the Welfare Officer, even if you are a witness.

DSC Code of Conducts are to be acknowledged annually, by Committee Members, Coaches, Volunteers, Parents/Guardians and Swimmers through SCM. Copies of the DSC Codes of Conduct are linked below.

Changing Room & Mobile Device Policy

To protect all members, the use of mobile phones or devices is strictly prohibited in changing areas during club activities. This includes taking photos, texting, or making calls. Please respect everyone’s privacy and report any concerns to the Welfare Officer. These rules are in line with Swim England’s Wavepower policy