Swimwear Policy

We have introduced a swimwear policy after finding that parents often avoid water-based activity because of what they have to wear.

We commissioned a nationwide study that revealed one in two mothers in Britain has been put off taking their child swimming due to fear of being seen in a bathing suit. As a result, we have reviewed our swimwear policy to include more modest items as a way of encouraging more parents to take the plunge.

The policy will allow swimmers to wear tight-fitting garments such as leggings, short and long-sleeved t-shirts and swim dresses. The guidelines are designed to make swimming more inclusive and tackle some of the barriers that prevent people from taking part.

The survey showed that the insecurity parents feel around body image can prevent them from taking their children swimming. This, in turn, can have a negative effect on children learning the life-saving skill. By introducing a range of clothing that is more closely aligned to active wear, Everyone Active is hoping to tackle this.

The policy has been commended by Rebecca Adlington, and is launching across all Everyone Active’s swimming pools.