Bullying going unchecked and parents fearful of complainingWarnings of ‘excessive demands’ of ‘performance-first’ system
Swim England has apologised after a landmark report criticised the “toxic” culture in some clubs, with bullying going unchecked and parents fearful of complaining to the governing body due a perceived risk of retaliation.
The independent report, which was based on 3,500 responses from competitors, parents and coaches, also warns of the “excessive demands and pressure” of a “performance-first” system that expects top young athletes to keep training even when exhausted, stressed, or during busy exam periods.