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The use of wheelchairs on poolside
Swimmers with a disability have the same opportunities as able-bodied swimmers. Your child can take part in a range of swimming opportunities, from social to competitive swimming, together with many other water based activities.
However, if you are the parent of a child who uses a wheelchair then here are some key facts you need be aware of:
- The law demands access routes to pools must be wheelchair-friendly and that users have access to the water.
- Some operators will not allow wheelchairs to the poolside for hygiene reasons. In this case they must provide an alternative.
- If your child’s wheelchair is a special design, operators should let the wheelchair poolside. But be aware there could be constraints. For example, some operators don’t allow rubber tyres as they mark the surface.
- Electric wheelchairs powered by wet batteries will not be allowed poolside because of leakage concerns.
- If you have any doubts concerning your child’s wheelchair contact your local operator.
If your child is interested in getting more involved in disability swimming and can swim 15m or more you can fill in British Swimming’s Swimming ID Tracker form. Once you return this you will receive a free DVD and information on how to get started.
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