SAFETYLIT WEEKLY UPDATE

We compile citations and summaries of about 400 new articles every week.
RSS Feed

HELP: Tutorials | FAQ
CONTACT US: Contact info

Search Results

Journal Article

Citation

Calverley H, Matthews B, Tesone L. Inj. Prev. 2022; 28(Suppl 2): A30.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2022, BMJ Publishing Group)

DOI

10.1136/injuryprev-2022-safety2022.90

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Proceedings of the 14th World Conference on Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion (Safety 2022)

Background Speculation of a swim teacher shortage in Victoria following the 2020/21 COVID-19 pandemic was based on anecdotal evidence. Addressing this issue was vital due to the importance of swim teachers in reducing drowning risk, and little published evidence exploring recruitment and retention of swim teachers.

Methods included review of peer-reviewed and grey literature to identify recruitment and retention strategies; surveys of Victorian swimming lesson providers, requesting current and retrospective data on swimming lesson provision, waiting lists, and staff; and follow-up emails to survey participants to gain further industry insights about strategies to assist the aquatic industry in ensuring sufficient staffing to meet demand post COVID-19.

Results Thirty-nine organisations completed the survey; approximately 25.6% of the Victorian swim teaching market share. Number of employed swim teachers was significantly lower in 2021 compared to 2019 (p = 0.003) and 2020 (p = 0.011); an additional 1,833 swim teachers are required in Victoria to meet demand. Eight practical recommendations to address the shortage are provided, incorporating: obtaining and maintaining qualifications; retention strategies; recruitment; and employment pathways.

Conclusions The provision of Victorian swim teachers does not meet current demand. Urgent action is required to recruit and retain more permanent staff, using strategies which incentivise the swim teaching role for staff and facilities, and offer role progression.

Learning Outcomes This is a call-to-action for a contribution of time and resources to address the Victorian swim teacher shortage. Without such action, the water safety skills and knowledge of Victorians will likely be impacted.


Language: en

NEW SEARCH


All SafetyLit records are available for automatic download to Zotero & Mendeley
Print