At Blackpool Polar Bears, we aim to create a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment for all our swimmers. To ensure the smooth running of our sessions and maximise the experience for everyone, we ask all members, carers, and guardians to follow a few essential rules. These guidelines are in place to prioritise the safety and well-being of our swimmers while also maintaining the high standards of care that our club upholds.

• Supervision:
  All children and vulnerable adults must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or designated adult carer unless an alternative arrangement has been agreed upon.

• Spectator Area:
  Parents, guardians, or adult carers must remain in the spectator area while their swimmer is in the water.

• Lesson Cancellations:
  If Blackpool Council cannot provide the required number of swimming teachers due to sickness or absenteeism, lessons may need to be cancelled at short notice. Blackpool Polar Bears is not responsible for such situations but will make every effort to contact you in case of a cancellation.

• Registration and Punctuality:
  Upon arrival at each swimming session, all members must register for health and safety reasons. Swimmers must also arrive on time for their lessons. If swimmers arrive more than 10 minutes late, they will not be allowed to swim.

• Notification of Absence:
  If a member cannot attend a session, their absence should be reported to the Chair or Membership Administrator using the contact details provided.

• Consecutive Absences:
  Suppose a member misses four consecutive weeks without a valid reason (such as illness or holiday) and without notifying the club. In that case, they will not be allowed to swim, and their membership may be terminated.

• Updating Personal Information:
  Any changes to personal information—such as address, home or mobile phone numbers, medication, or behavioural patterns—must be reported to the Membership Administrator.

• Insurance:
  Blackpool Polar Bears has Public Liability Insurance. If personal insurance cover is required, this must be arranged separately by the member, their parent, guardian, or responsible carer.

• Incident and Behavioural Policy:
  Blackpool Polar Bears operates an "Incident and Behavioural Book" per Blackpool Council guidelines. If a member is involved in an incident with staff, volunteers, or other members, they will be removed from their lesson, and the incident will be recorded. The severity of the incident will be assessed by the Chair or Vice Chair (Swimming and Social Committee).

• Minor Incidents:
  In the case of a minor incident, a written warning will be issued following a discussion with the member and their parent, guardian, or adult carer.

• Major Incidents or Repeat Offences:
  If a member is involved in a significant incident or receives three written warnings within a year, the matter will be escalated to the Swimming and Social Committee and Trustees. Under these circumstances, the member may no longer be allowed to swim, and their membership could be terminated.

The Importance of Following the Rules

By adhering to these rules, we can ensure that everyone enjoys their time at Blackpool Polar Bears. These guidelines help create a safe, supportive, and respectful environment, allowing our sessions to run smoothly and every swimmer to maximise their time in the pool. When all members, parents, and carers work together to follow these rules, we can provide a more enjoyable experience for everyone and continue fostering the inclusive, positive atmosphere central to our club's mission.