Chaperone

A swimming club chaperone is primarily at ‘away’ competitions. They take on the role of a responsible parent for designated swimmers under 18yrs of age.

What do we and the club expect from you?

• To travel with the club to competitions as required and assist with the arrival and departure of the team.
• To collect and drop-off the swimmer at the designated departure and arrival locations as specified by the team venue/travel arrangements and agreed with the swimmer’s parents / guardian
• To be aware of the movements of your allocated swimmer at all times.
• To obtain and hold all relevant athlete documentation and information as the competition and travel requires, including; medical and additional needs information.
• Ensure the general care and wellbeing of the swimmer and monitor their adherence to the event code of conduct and clubs off-deck behaviour standards as requested by the coach.
• To share with the team manager any details and issues which are relevant to the participation of the swimmer.

Who we are looking for?

• You will have a basic understand of the aquatic competition, its procedures and the requirements of the athletes.
• You will be enthusiastic and have a good understanding of the club and its members.
• You will have excellent organisational skills.
• You will be confident in supporting an athlete to participate in competition to the best of their ability.
• You will be able to build a relationship with the parents / guardian of the athlete to support their participation in competition.
• You will be familiar with and adhere to the Wavepower and NSPCC Safe Sport Events, Activities and Competitions documentation.
• You will hold an up-to-date Barred List Check and/or Enhanced DBS check and have completed approved child Safeguarding training within a reasonable time of taking up the position.

Level of commitment required

This will vary from club to club, but will involve attending competitions with the team and may involve travel with the team and overnight stays. An individual can act as chaperone and welfare officer when the numbers are low.

What support can you expect from Swim England?

• Access to resources and guidance via the ‘Club Hub’.

What will you gain from the experience?

This is a fun and supportive role which success and impact on the club will be determined by your own motivations and enthusiasms.

As well as your ability to look after team members at competitions, it is an opportunity to take on a new challenge, support the club and its athletes, and get to know the swimmers on the team.