In her latest column, Ashton-under-Lyne MP Angela Rayner talks about supporting Ashton Swimming Club which was temporarily suspended by Swim England due to a policy change.

There are so many groups and organisations within my constituency that do so much good for the community and I try to visit as many of them as I can to learn more about what they do and help them out when they run into difficulties.

This week, I was contacted by members of Ashton Swimming Club who were concerned about new regulations introduced by Swim England and how they might be affected.

The club was established in 1895 and is run solely by volunteers. 

There are currently 122 members from age four upwards.

When children join the club, they are first taught how to swim and then invited to take part in local and regional competitions.

Former members of the club are now challenging for places in the national Commonwealth and Olympic squads. 

It really is a fantastic club that unearths real talent in a safe space and a really positive atmosphere.

Club activities were obviously severely hampered by the restrictions enforced during the pandemic, but volunteers worked hard to keep members in touch with weekly online quizzes and then re-establish training routines as soon as they were allowed. They are now back to training twice a week.

Unfortunately, the club was placed under a temporary suspension by Swim England due to a change in policy which dictates that every affiliated club needs to have a qualified Level 2 swimming coach.

Due to the voluntary nature of the club throughout its history, coaches have not been required to undertake courses. 

All coaches at the club are Level 1 or 2 teacher trained as well as having the necessary DBS checks to work with children. 

They were understandably upset over the policy change which was brought in without consultation.

The required qualification costs £220 to complete Level 2, rising to £250 for Level 1. 

This is obviously a substantial cost for small community clubs to cover as they continue to find their feet after the difficulties brought on by the pandemic.

Myself and Jonathan Reynolds, MP for Stalybridge and Hyde, wrote to Swim England to express our disappointment that such a valuable community club had been suspended.

Thankfully, the club has since been able to work with Swim England to reach a compromise on how to satisfy the new requirements and the suspension has been lifted.

I am delighted that such a positive outcome has been delivered and that keen swimmers of all ages can continue to enjoy their beloved club.

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