Careers in Aquatics
Frequently asked questions about volunteering in aquatics
March 3, 2019If you want to learn a bit more about volunteering with Swim England, take a look through some of our Frequently Asked Questions about volunteering in aquatics (FAQs) below.
If you can’t find the answer you are looking for, please contact us by email at [email protected].
- What volunteering opportunities are available?
Whether you want to help out within a club; are looking for a role on a Committee, Coaching, Teaching, Team Managing, helping on Poolside, training as an Official or getting involved in Web and Social media etc. There is a role for you. You could also be part of the action at local, regional and national events with exciting opportunities to suit your skills, available time and enthusiasm.
- How much time and commitment would volunteering involve?
Even the smallest contributions can really make a difference. Some volunteering tasks may require regular hours each week, some only a few each month, some roles may be for a specific one-off event. Really the amount of time and commitment depends on what you fancy doing and how much time you would like to give.
- What skills will I need?
Enthusiasm and a passion to help others are key! As long as you have that, any aquatic discipline club will more than welcome your support. For roles requiring specific skills and training Swim England offer training opportunities and official qualifications to support and upskill you as a volunteer.
- What support is available?
Swim England is here to support all volunteers within the aquatics community. For information and contact details please head to the Get in touch page. Here you will be able to find contacts who will be able to offer support.
Swim England provide education and support to clubs to make sure they know how to effectively engage and manage all their volunteers.
If working with a club they should provide you with a clear idea of what your role will be and as well as ensure you have access to appropriate training and support.
The most important thing is making sure that you enjoy your volunteering experience!
- Is there anything else I need to do when I sign up as a volunteer?
All Swim England club volunteers must be a member of Swim England – Club Support Membership is our specific category for volunteers.
Your club will be able to support you through the quick process of becoming a member. If you are an existing member, there is no additional membership requirement for you to be able to volunteer.
If you will be working regularly with children (anyone aged under 18yrs), there is a legal requirement for you to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check through the club.
- Can I claim benefits while volunteering?
Yes. The benefits regulations are clear that you can continue to receive benefits while volunteering. You can find all the latest information about volunteering and benefits, including Jobseekers Allowance and Incapacity Benefit from the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO).
- I am not a British national. Can I volunteer while in the UK?
Generally there should be no problem accepting someone from outside the UK as a volunteer, but the individual must ensure that immigration rules allow them to do so. Guidelines from the NCVO can be found on the NCVO website .
- Can I volunteer if I have a disability?
Of course! It is important to us to ensure that our volunteering opportunities are available to everyone. If you have a particular concern, or would like help in finding an opportunity, please contact us by email at [email protected].
- Can I volunteer if I am under 16 or over 75 years of age?
Young volunteers under 16yrs will be able to volunteer as long as they are a member of a Swim England affiliated club.
Swim England club membership insurance provides full personal accident cover to members up to 70yrs of age. Members over 70 years old are able to volunteer up to the age of 85 but have a reduced level of accident cover. Please note this does not affect the public liability of the club or event.
If you would like further details on the insurance cover provided please visit our club insurance portal or email our membership services team [email protected].
