Admission Policy

Swimming Pools
The Vista Leisure Swimming Pools Admission Policy aims to safeguard swimmers that are most at risk when bathing. The policy does not intend to prevent families and children having fun in the water and enjoying the physical and social benefits of swimming, nor create unnecessary barriers for parents and carers when accessing our facilities.

The policy takes into account recommendations from the Institute of Sport & Recreation (ISRM). It is important to note that the rules appertaining to child parent ratios will differ depending upon the number of bathers in the swimming pools. Vista Leisure will vary the parent child ratio according to the peak and off peak swimming sessions operated at the leisure centre and we reserve the right to change the ratio at any time to ensure maximum safety.

General Policy
All Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by a responsible person of 16 years or above.
The responsible person must go into the water with the child/children they are accompanying.
Whilst in the pool the responsible person should maintain a constant watch over the child/children they are accompanying and be in close contact with children who are weak or non-swimmers.

Supervision Ratio

School Holiday Periods & Weekends ONLY
Children under the age of 8 years (4-7) must be accompanied by a responsible person over 16 years on a 1 adult – 2 children ratio. If one of the children is under 4 years (0-3) they must be accompanied 1 adult to 1 child.

All other times (except school holidays and weekends)
Children under the age of 8 years (4-7) must be accompanied by a responsible person over 16 years on a 1 adult – 3 children ratio. If one of the children is under 4 years (0-3) they must be accompanied 1 adult to 2 children. These ratios only apply if under 4’s, weak or non-swimmers are wearing suitable swimming aids.

Note: Swimming aids e.g. armbands, must be manufactured to approved standards and carry a kite mark or BS EN number.

Vista Leisure reserves the right to deviate from the above policy in response to varying bather loads and the demands of the pool programmes.

Child Safety

The safety of all children using our facilities is a major priority for Vista Leisure and this responsibility is taken seriously. The following policies and procedures have been introduced to provide a safe environment for children.

• The Vista Leisure Child Protection Policy outlines our commitment supported by procedures to meet the needs and welfare of children in our care.
• This facility including the changing rooms is checked by staff every 20 minutes. Any suspicious behaviour will be reported and acted upon.
• For staff working with children Vista Leisure ensures that all relevant employment checks are satisfactory and that staff undertake suitable and continuous training in relation to their duties.
• Photographic equipment including mobile phones capable of capturing images must not be used within this facility. (Vista Leisure reserves the right to authorise the use of photographic equipment for specific reasons).
• When using the swimming pools (excluding Walmer Paddling Pool) children under the age of four must be accompanied in the water by a responsible person (16 yrs +) on a one to one basis. Children aged four to seven must be accompanied on a maximum two to one basis. Walmer Paddling Pool is for use by children under the age of 10 who must also be accompanied by a responsible person.

If you see anything suspicious please contact a member of staff immediately.

Thank you for your co-operation in supporting our efforts to provide a safe environment for children.

Safe Swimming

A Guide to Safe and Enjoyable Swimming
Please follow these general rules to ensure you enjoy your visit and remain safe.

1. Please shower before entering the water.
2. Make sure you know the depth of the water you are entering.
3. Be aware of diving areas, wave machines, slopes and slides.
4. Never swim after a heavy meal.
5. Never swim under the influence of alcohol.
6. Avoid holding your breath and swimming long distances under water.
7. Refrain from unruly behaviour, running, ducking, acrobatics, shouting and screaming.
8. Be aware of any medical condition that may impact on your swimming activities e.g. Asthma, epilepsy, diabetes or heart problems.

Lane Swimming (Dover Leisure Centre Only)

1. Lanes are defined by a board at each end indicating the use of that lane.
2. Swim In the lane appropriate to your ability.
3. Observe lane direction signs.
4. If you catch up with the swimmer in front gently touch their feet to indicate you wish to overtake. Please move aside when this happens to you.
5. Do not congregate or stand chatting at the end of the lane.
6. Stand aside during rest periods so that other swimmers may turn.
7. The recommended maximum number of swimmers in the fast lane is 8.
8. The recommended maximum number of swimmers in the slow lane is 10.
9. If you think a swimmer is in the wrong lane please report this to a Lifeguard.
10. Listen to the advice of Lifeguards, they are there for your safety and to ensure you enjoy your swim.