Swim England has taken the first steps to turn existing guidance into policy following a commitment made in its safeguarding, welfare and culture plan.
The national governing body vowed in the Heart of Aquatics to move towards publishing policy rather than guidance, where it is applicable, in areas that impact safeguarding, welfare and culture.
All Swim England affiliated clubs and coaches must comply with the policy, which covers all aquatic disciplines, and states athletes under the age of 18 should not be weighed, unless they are on a nationally supported talent pathway.
Olympic bronze medallist Cassie Patten, who has recently been appointed to Swim England’s new Oversight Committee as an athlete representative, has welcomed the move.
Cassie said: “I’m really pleased to see Swim England has changed its position statement on weighing athletes and turned it into this important policy.
“There have been too many instances in the past of unacceptable behaviour around weighing athletes and this policy sets out the parameters to prevent that inappropriate conduct happening in the future.
“Performance is a key part of an athlete’s development but we also need to prioritise their mental health and wellbeing.
