As the National Governing Body for Aquatics in Wales, Swim Wales is responsible for governing aquatic disciplines across the nation.

We align our approach with the Sport Wales Arwain Cymru : A Governance and People Development Framework, which provides a shared foundation for effective, inclusive and values‑led organisations across Welsh sport. The framework supports long‑term sustainability, while encouraging innovation, continuous learning and improvement.

Arwain Cymru recognises that strong governance is about more than structures and compliance. It brings together effective systems, clear accountability and ethical leadership, alongside culture, behaviours and decision making that place people at the heart of everything we do.

Good governance balances policies, procedures, regulations and systems all of which are essential for high‑performing organisations with strong, values‑led leadership. This includes behaviours, integrity, ethics and the way decisions are made.

Sport would not be possible without the commitment of volunteers and the people who give their time, skills and energy to aquatics. We have a responsibility to value, support and safeguard everyone involved, ensuring their welfare and wellbeing are central to how we operate. As a National Governing Body, Swim Wales is committed to leading by example through a people‑centred approach that listens, learns and responds to the needs of our communities.

Good governance enables Swim Wales to succeed in our areas of responsibility and to continue to develop and grow aquatics in Wales, providing an inclusive pathway for everyone who wishes to take part.

Governance is not the management of day‑to‑day operations. It is the framework through which strategy is set, risks are understood and managed, and systems and controls are assured. It also relates to leadership shaping culture, reinforcing values and acting with openness and integrity.

Effective leadership requires confidence to challenge, readiness to adapt and the willingness to be bold when necessary. By creating the right culture, Swim Wales seeks to enable individuals and organisations across our sport to thrive, innovate and reach their potential.

The Arwain Cymru Framework can be used by organisations at all levels as a practical tool to strengthen governance and leadership and support long‑term sustainability.

Within a sporting context, it’s important to be fully aware of the Duty of Care obligation to provide a safe environment for all athletes, coaches, support staff and administrators to ensure that they are protected and free from harm, bullying, harassment and discrimination. Although there may be processes and safeguards in place, having the right culture is crucial to ensure they work effectively.

While clear processes and safeguards are essential, organisational culture is critical to ensuring these measures work effectively in practice. Swim Wales is committed to promoting a culture where concerns can be raised, people feel respected and welfare is prioritised at all levels of the organisation.

Introduced in 2025, the Arwain Cymru Governance and People Development Framework supports the sector to respond to political and cultural change by helping organisations develop strong, effective governance and leadership. The framework enables organisations to operate in ways that build resilience, support continuous improvement and maximise the value they deliver. The new framework embraces changes in society, reflects learning from significant governance events from across the world, and places an emphasis on the areas which can positively impact on organisational performance.

The framework is underpinned by five principles, which should be used as tools to improve and maintain the governance and leadership of your organisation. Each principle is supported by a clear outcome, practical explanations and examples of what evidence demonstrates both core and good practice.

Principle 1: Organisational and Legal Compliance

Principle 2: People & Cultures

Principle 3: Insight, Engagement & Strategy

Principle 4: An effectively run organisation

Principle 5: Finance

If you have any questions, please email the team at governance@swimwales.org

For safeguarding or welfare-related concerns, please contact our safeguarding team directly at safeguarding@swimwales.org