Swimtime going above and beyond for their franchisees

Swimtime, the largest independent swim school in the UK, is one of the thousands of businesses being affected by the policies to delay the effects of Coronavirus. It is in these unprecedented times where a company’s core values are truly revealed and put to the test as they navigate incredibly difficult decisions whilst battling for survival.

In franchising, the need for true values is more important than ever, with each franchise holding a community of small businesses that will need help and support. Swimtime hold its values closely with everything it does and is proud to be such a franchise that will support their franchisees, going above and beyond what is required.

With lessons unable to run due to pool and leisure facility closures, several Swimtime employees from various departments have been volunteering their time to help and assist franchisees during this difficult period.  

The volunteers are supporting franchisees in a number of ways, setting up weekly conference calls with a wide range of topics, all focused on enhancing their business skills and the outlook of our franchisees. Ensuring that they have sufficient knowledge and skills to push forward with, once the business and lessons resume. Sessions are also held on direct business support, finding the most appropriate grants and loan schemes set up by the government in the wake of COVID-19. Ensuring our network will be in a stable condition once our services resume, whilst giving our swimmers a seamless transition back into the water.

These calls, however, won’t just be for learning and enhancing their business knowledge. With the isolation measures in place, Swimtime recognise the pressure on our mental health and wellbeing and acknowledge that these are being tested more than ever before.  In light of this we are also holding virtual coffee mornings every week where franchisees can have a relaxed and casual conversation about what’s going on, how they are feeling, sharing ideas and experiences with those closest with an understanding to their situation.

Now, more than ever it is important that we show our values in our actions. Being part of the Swimtime Family means helping and supporting our franchise network, coming together when times are tough, and working through it as best we can. Being a part of franchising, you know you’re stronger together.