SwimMark accreditation paused as Swim England looks to develop new framework

Swim England is pausing the SwimMark accreditation scheme for future submissions as a new framework to support the long-term development of clubs is created – easing the administrative burden on volunteers.

The decision has been taken following insight gathered from clubs, volunteers, stakeholders and operators during a six-month review, in addition to feedback gained at the Values and Vision Roadshows and the Listening Report.

More than 600 clubs are SwimMark accredited, which was Swim England’s framework to support the development  of clubs. 

The insight gathered, however, highlighted that the process of completing SwimMark was no longer seen as a development tool by clubs or regions.  

The review also highlighted confusion among club volunteers who felt that SwimMark was a mandatory requirement to remain affiliated to Swim England, which is not the case.

No new submissions for SwimMark can now be made in light of the outcome of the review.

Clubs must continue to ensure they meet the mandatory requirements of Club Affiliation every 12 months – recognising that a club is operating in a safe and compliant way and has achieved the minimum standard of safe and effective practice.

Ally Whike, Swim England sport development director, said feedback the national governing body had received suggested the process and purpose of completing SwimMark had become compliance-focused, took too much time to complete and was no longer meeting the development needs of all aquatic clubs.

Empowering clubs

He said: “The engagement in the review by clubs has been fantastic and we are grateful for the time taken to be involved.

“Clubs and volunteers are extremely important and therefore it’s crucial that the necessary time and consideration is given to implementing the recommendations of the review.  

“The decision to pause SwimMark is not one that has been taken lightly but it’s been made with the interests of members and volunteers at its heart.

“Our commitment to support the development of clubs is undiminished. A new way of working will be developed collaboratively with clubs and regions, linking closely to our refreshed strategy.

“The focus now is to ensure a future development framework is fundamentally club-centred, empowering clubs to set achievable aims and ambitions and deliver positive cultures where all members feel valued and supported.

“We understand clubs will be keen to receive further information and regular updates on the progress made will be provided.“

Clubs that are SwimMark accredited can continue to display the logo and use the SwimMark portal to access their documents until a decision is made on when the scheme will be officially withdrawn.

The benefits associated with the SwimMark accreditation will also remain until the new framework is announced.

Any clubs with queries can view the frequently asked questions or email [email protected].