Crosby Leisure Centre in Merseyside have partnered up with Aiming High Short Breaks to give 30 children access to weekly swim sessions for 6 months.
The scheme started in January 2024 and has been enjoyed by children with autism and their families.
It offers a safe haven who may have previously felt isolated and hesitated to get involved with swimming activities.
The initiative has been met with enthusiasm from the local community.
Contract Manager on behalf of Parkwood Leisure, Lee Carnwell, said: “We are delighted with the positive impact the scheme is having on these children.”
“It is amazing that this initiative is not only promoting physical activity and improving mental wellbeing but helping to alleviate feelings of anxiety and social isolation often felt by children with autism.”
As well as teaching these children swimming skills, the sessions help improve children’s confidence and develop their social skills.
John Doran, Assistant Manager of Sefton Councils Aiming High Team, said: “The Atlantis sessions have been a fantastic addition to the Aiming High programme for many reasons. It has given many of our children, who have been reluctant to join in on swimming and water sessions, the confidence to get involved.”
“The distraction of having so much fun on the inflatable has helped their confidence grow and has diminished the anxiety that a lot of disabled children have over trying new venues and activities. It has also given them a pathway to access public swim sessions to help with their swimming skills and social skills.”
