Swim England's governance review, an initiative aimed at streamlining its operations and aligning with the One Swim England strategy, has sparked concerns within the organization. The review, which began in October 2025, has been a topic of debate, with employees and regional groups expressing worries about centralization and the potential loss of control. The central issue lies in the current governance structure, which Swim England describes as a complex web of over 40 independent entities, leading to confusion and inefficiencies. This has prompted the review to propose significant changes, including the dissolution of regional and county entities and the integration of governance under a single national structure.
One of the key proposals is the transformation of regional and county governance. The Integrated Model, a part of the review, suggests dissolving these entities as legal bodies, transferring key functions to Swim England, and reducing their decision-making authority. This shift would result in a more centralized structure, with regions and counties operating as advisory or steering groups. However, this proposal has raised concerns about accountability, as regions and counties fear losing control over their independent budgets and direct employment of staff. The potential loss of local knowledge and support for clubs is another significant worry, especially with the proposed replacement of the Swim England Members Forum with an Aquatics Assembly.
The review also addresses membership fees, suggesting that Swim England retain the fees instead of distributing them to counties. This decision has sparked debates about financial transparency and the potential impact on county operations. Despite the concerns, Swim England maintains that the process is still in its early stages and that no decisions have been finalized. The organization emphasizes the importance of a collaborative approach, inviting further engagement and feedback from stakeholders.
The governance review's timeline is structured in three phases: an initial sprint phase from August to December 2025, a consultation phase from January to May 2026, and an implementation phase from June 2026 onwards. Swim England's CEO, Andy Salmon, has taken a leave of absence for health reasons, which has added another layer of complexity to the review process. The organization's response to the concerns has been to assure stakeholders that the process is open and that their input is valued, aiming to modernize governance and reduce complexity for the long-term success of the sport.
In conclusion, Swim England's governance review is a significant undertaking with far-reaching implications. The organization's efforts to centralize governance and address inefficiencies are commendable, but the process must be handled with care to maintain the trust and support of regional and county groups. The outcome of this review will shape the future of Swim England and the aquatics community, highlighting the importance of a transparent and inclusive decision-making process.
