It is encouraging to see Swim England develop and launch a revised strategic approach following the findings of The Listening Report and the appointment in early 2024 of new chief executive Andy Salmon. 

Swim England has taken a reflective approach and the new strategy represents considerable discussion with the swimming community. 

The strategy references wider issues such as the need for a more connected digital ecosystem, a growth in revenues, and an increased focus on environmental sustainability.  

Goals remain focused on stronger clubs, effective learn to swim, access to water, and competitive success. There’s acknowledgement too about the threat to publicly accessible pools, and the need for close working with government, local authorities, and operators to protect future provision. But there’s also an increased emphasis on creating a shift in culture in the organisation and a stronger focus on welfare and safeguarding. 

Swim England’s updated approach also reflects the trend for outdoor swimming with a commitment to raise the benefits of outdoor swimming and support campaigns to improve access to open water sites. 

Swim England has an increased focus on collaboration and is like CLOA, a committed partner to The Swimming Alliance.  Andy Salmon has outlined a fresh leadership tone in this new strategy and it would appear to give the organisation a firm base upon which to work and deliver on its ambitions.

More on One Swim England here: https://www.swimming.org/swimengland/one-swim-england-launched/

Debbie Kaye

CLOA Immediate Past Chair and CLOA representative on the Swimming Alliance