SAFEGUARDING
Safeguarding really matters to us at Halesowen Swimming Club.
We want every swimmer to feel safe, supported and welcome - whatever their age or ability. Our coaches and volunteers set clear expectations for behaviour, treat people with respect, and take any concern seriously. We follow the Aquatics GB safeguarding guidance, including the Wavepower document, so we’re working to the right standards and best practice.
If you ever have a worry or just want to check something, please speak to one of the team or contact our Welfare Officers. We would always rather you ask...no question is too small.
OUR SAFEGUARDING/WELFARE OFFICERS
Vicky Welch
Bev Abbott
Rob Hickman
We understand that sometimes people may want to raise a concern, ask for advice, or share something sensitive in confidence.
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That’s why we have a dedicated email address for our Welfare Officers. It gives swimmers, parents and carers a safe, private way to get in touch about anything related to wellbeing, safeguarding or support - separate from general club enquiries.
Our Welfare Officers are trained to listen, support and act appropriately, always with care, discretion and respect.
RESOURCES FOR PARENTS & CARERS
We know that keeping children safe can sometimes feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. We’ve put together a collection of helpful resources to support you and your swimmer with things like online safety, confidence, boundaries and tricky situations that might come up as they grow.
They’re here to start conversations, build confidence, and give you simple, practical tools you can use at home. Nothing scary - just friendly, useful guidance to help you and your child feel informed, supported and ready for whatever comes their way
Online E-Safety
Covering everything from social media to AI, online gaming to parental controls. It offers tips, tools, and support to protect children from cyberbullying, grooming, and harmful content.
PANTS
You’ve probably already talked to your child about things like crossing the road safely. But have you spoken to them about how to stay safe from sexual abuse? We know it’s a conversation no parent wants to have, but we believe it can feel just as natural, and be just as easy, as the road safety chat.
ACT EARLY
Act Early UK guides families in spotting early signs of radicalisation—from sudden anger to secretive online habits—and encourages acting fast to get children the support they need to avoid extremist paths.
Think You Know 4-7
Think You Know 8-10
Think You Know 11-18
The National Crime Agency's CEOP Education team aim to help protect children and young people from online child sexual abuse. The resources are are are three different age groups.
Young Minds
For young people feeling overwhelmed, stressed or confused, YoungMinds offers practical guides on coping, finding support, reaching out to others, and joining a community that stands up for youth mental wellbeing.