Swimming Updates
The rules governing swimming activities have been revised and improved. The new, simplified arrangements will ensure that running such activities is easier for leaders. To support the revision, which has been implemented following feedback from members across the movement, this page provides details of these improvements and links to training courses and resources that have been updated to support this.
Main changes
- Paddling has been clarified and still requires no qualification by leaders
- No further qualifications are required in instances where a lifeguard is provided (including swimming pools and beaches)
- Swimming in pools and Class C waters are now managed in line with other Class C water activities. No qualifications are required by leaders
- Swimming in all other open waters (B1 and higher) has been simplified and safety cover can be provided by either:
- A water activities permit holder (when following the guidelines outlined in the swimming factsheet)
- Someone who holds the Royal Life Saving Society Water Safety Management Programme (WSMP) or any equivalent or higher award.
Full guidance is available in the swimming factsheet
Why change?
The revised rules for swimming are determined by the classification of water location and required supervision. It ensures that you can continue to provide accessible activities for young people in a safe environment.
Communicating the new rules
The rule changes are initially being communicated to volunteer commissioners and advisers who specifically support relevant activities.
Any activities planned under the existing rules can still take place under these revisions, which are implemented and in use immediately.
The review and consultations were revised to fit with the way swimming activities work in scouting by teams of specialist activity volunteers, representatives from the Royal Life Saving Society, staff members and volunteers across the organisation via Scouting Plus, survey and formal discussions.
Details of these updates are being communicated to the movement via Scouting Plus and the April / May edition of scouting magazine.
Support
A number of WSMP courses are scheduled.
A team of trainers is being recruited to help deliver the WSMP courses.
Updated guidance
- FS120620 Swimming.
- POR 9.44 Classifications of Waters.
- POR 9.45 Water Activities Permits.
- POR 9.48 Activities near the Water.
- POR 9.49 Paddling.
- POR 9.50 Swimming – General.
- POR 9.51 Swimming Activities – Class C Waters (including swimming pools).
- POR 9.52 Swimming Activities – All other open waters.
- POR 9.54 Scout Owned Swimming Facilities.