Bristol leisure centres are creating more opportunities for children with disabilities to participate in swimming lessons. Everyone Active on behalf of Bristol City Council, are working in partnership with Level Water to run the scheme – a national charity dedicated to increasing opportunities for disabled children to learn to swim.
The swim scheme enables children to build their confidence in the water in a supportive and inclusive environment, which has been designed to cater to the needs of those who have a physical or sensory disability. More than 200 lessons have been delivered across the city in the past six months, taking place at Bristol South Swimming Pool, Horfield Leisure Centre, Henbury Leisure Centre and Easton Leisure Centre.
Prior to launching the scheme, Level Water conducted research with disabled children and their families in Bristol, which revealed that 96 per cent of children enjoy swimming, yet only eight per cent feel they have good access to swimming lessons. After a successful six months, demand for the inclusive swim scheme is growing.
In response, Everyone Active and Level Water have recruited two new inclusion specialists that are specifically focused on delivering the disability swim sessions. With capacity for a greater number of sessions, it means that more children with disabilities will be able to participate in the swim scheme, helping to bridge the inequality gap in swimming.
Cameron Bate, contract manager at Everyone Active, said: “We are proud to be working in partnership with Level Water to broaden access for local children with disabilities to participate in swimming lessons. Since launching earlier this year, the scheme has gone from strength to strength, which has now enabled us to expand the swim sessions and create more opportunities for families in Bristol.
“This initiative forms part of our wider mission to reduce health inequalities in the city and offer leisure activities that everyone can enjoy, no matter their age, background or ability.”
Matthew Maguire, Head of Programmes at Level Water, said: “Level Water is so happy to be working with Everyone Active to increase opportunities for young disabled people to learn to swim in Bristol. Our Inclusion Specialists are expert teachers who are able to individualise the learn to swim journey for young people and their families, ensuring their lessons are adapted, safe and most of all, fun.
“Working with two dedicated disability teacher allows us to make a significant impact across the city and we can’t wait for more people to access swimming lessons.” For more information on the inclusive swimming lessons, find your local Bristol centre here and check out the timetables.