Swim Safe programme rolls out across the UK

Swim England’s annual outdoor swimming and water safety programme will be delivered across the UK this summer.

Delivered in partnership with the RNLI, Swim Safe provides free outdoor swimming and water safety sessions for seven to ­­­14 year-olds. The sessions teach children how to swim safely outdoors, the difference between swimming inside and out, and what to do if they get into trouble.

The programme launched in 2013 at a single venue in Cornwall and this year will be delivered in 29 locations across the UK.

Ashley Jones, Swim Safe Delivery Manager, said: “Swim Safe is an amazing programme that has grown significantly over the last six years. Its aim is simple, we want to make sure every child has the opportunity to learn how to be safe when swimming outdoors.

“This not only helps children to understand the potential dangers of swimming in the sea or other areas, it helps families enjoy the summer and feel safe when heading to the beach or on holiday. That’s why it’s so great that Swim Safe is back again this summer and at even more locations.

“The programme couldn’t run without the support of our volunteers, local delivery partners and the wider community and we are grateful to everyone who gives their time and energy to making the programme a success.

“I’m really looking forward to this year’s activity and seeing the positive impact we will have on so many children and their families.”

Swim Safe for schools

Since Swim Safe started, sessions have been available to the public. In 2016, the programme was extended to cater for schools. This provided children who may not have the opportunity to learn about water safety in the open air, the chance to attend the free, practical sessions and help them to be safe when swimming outside.

Jon Glenn, Learn to Swim Director, said: “All primary school children are required to learn swimming and water safety as part of the National Curriculum. The Swim Safe schools sessions provide a great opportunity for schools to teach the water safety element in a safe, outdoor environment.

“The feedback we have received from teachers shows these free sessions have a huge impact on the young people, which is why we would like to see this part of the programme grow over the next few years.”

For more information about the public and school sessions, including how to book, visit the Swim Safe website.