CCSC Child Protection Officer - Mike Tong
Swim Wales (Formerly Welsh Amateur Swimming Association) is in the forefront in the introduction of Child Protection policies. Our Club fully supports the principal of all adults with significant access to children - coaches, officials and volunteers to be CRB (Criminal Record Bureau) checked prior to them working with any of our under 18 members.
The club strives to provide a safe, supportive and enjoyable environment in which all swimmers are able to develop and reach their potential in the sport. The club has both a moral and legal obligation to ensure that all adults (coaches, officials and volunteers) who work with its swimmers understand their responsibilities to safeguard children from harm and abuse. The club works within the ethical and legal framework provided by Swim Wales (WASA) in its Child Protection Policy and Procedures. The club also has strong links with Cardiff County Council’s Swimming Development Team.
The club fully supports the principle that all staff and volunteers working with young people should have enhanced CRB checks, relevant training or self-study, and an understanding of good practice in relation to child protection. Whilst our coaches, officials and volunteers try to set the highest possible standards of care, the children themselves also have a duty of care to each other and to the coaching staff. Swimmers (members) are encouraged to read the Club’s Code of Conduct in respect of their personal conduct and relationships with others.
From November 2011, the Club’s Child Protection Officer is Mike Tong.
Mike is an experienced secondary school teacher. He has a good understanding of safeguarding and is experienced at dealing with a wide range of sensitive issues, particularly for the 11-18 age range. Two of his children swim with the club, in the performance and development squads. Mike’s role within the club is to work in partnership with members and their parents, coaches, officials and volunteers in all matters relating to the safety and welfare of children (under 18) swimming within the club.
Mike will work closely with the Club’s officers and committee members on any and all relevant issues that are brought to the Club’s attention. Should any member require advice or guidance
then please contact him by email on
Should any member require advice, guidance or help in any way, they may speak to Mike in complete confidence, according to the nature of the enquiry.
Other Advisory Groups & Association Contacts:
ChildLine A free Helpline for children and young people in the UK on 0800 1111
KidScape A voluntary organisation committed to help prevent child bullying, who can be contacted on 0207 730 3300.
SwimLine A British Swimming Helpline associated with the NSPCC, specifically for swimmers 0808 100 4001
NSPCC Child Protection free Helpline direct: 0800 800 5000 (open 24 hours a day)