Swim Safe programme to reach 30,000 children across the UK

Swim Safe, the free outdoor swimming and water safety programme for children aged 7-14, is coming to more locations than ever across the UK this summer.

Created by Swim England and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), Swim Safe teaches young people how to swim safely outdoors and what to do if they, or someone else, get into difficulty in the water.

This year, there are almost 30,000 free spaces at 37 beach and inland water locations throughout England, Scotland, Wales, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man.

There are 17,000 places available to book, while 13,000 spots are set aside for local schools.

Swim Safe launched in 2013 at Bude in Cornwall and has expanded every year since. There are eight new locations offering sessions in 2019.

Swim England and the RNLI work in partnership with Swim Wales and a range of local partners to deliver Swim Safe sessions.

Ashley Jones, Swim Safe Manager, said: “It’s great to see the continued growth of Swim Safe, as we seek to ensure every child has the opportunity to learn how to be safe when swimming outdoors.

“As summer approaches, it is a timely reminder of the potential dangers of swimming in the sea or other areas.

“The Swim Safe programme helps families feel safe when heading to the beach or on holiday and at home, whether they live by the coast, inland, or in cities.

“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.”

How it works

Swim Safe sessions are run by qualified instructors and lifeguards, who provide open water safety advice on land, up to 30 minutes in-water tuition and all the right kit needed to swim outdoors, including swimming hats, wetsuits and flotation equipment.

After the 60-minute session, children will have a better understanding of why water safety is so important and the knowledge required to help them if they find themselves in difficulty in or near the water.

In order to take part, children must be aged 7-14 and able to swim a minimum of 25 metres. A parent or guardian must be present throughout the session.

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