British Swimming has welcomed the findings of the Performance Investment Policy Review announced today by UK Sport.
British Swimming Chief Executive David Sparkes said: “We support the focus on medals but have also been encouraged by references to additional factors which UK Sport will also consider when determining future funding.
“Through this review process, the sports and public have given clear indications that considerations need to be given to levels of participation, the unique challenges faced by team sports and the need for longer-term strategies across some sports. This response should lead to a positive step forward.
“British Swimming hopes UK Sport will also recognise the valuable role that sports such as water polo and synchronised swimming can play in inspiring women to become more involved in sport. This is an area of great focus at the moment and should be supported by the Olympic sports.”
Sparkes believes UK Sport’s commitment to ensure home nations work more closely across the talent pathway while sharing best practice will be of real benefit to sports.
“This commitment to align the talent pathway across home nations is an area that swimming is already working hard towards and we believe we’ve made significant progress.
“We have seen a crop of exciting, new talent emerge, specifically in Scotland, and there’s recognition that if you have strong representation as a British team this is also reflected in a strong home nation team. This was very evident at last year’s Commonwealth Games for Scotland and Wales.”