CHILDREN with disabilities in South Ayrshire have been supported to gain vital swimming lessons thanks to inclusive mainstream classes.

Research by Scottish Swimming has revealed that a partnership with Scottish Water which is delivered by South Ayrshire Council across four pools aims to ensure children of all abilities can become confident, competent and safer swimmers.

The report highlights that 70% of current participants with a disability who attend the Learn to Swim programme in South Ayrshire have enhanced their social skills and communication.

It is hoped that more children will be encouraged to take to the pools thanks to a new campaign called #SeeMyAbility, which builds on existing inclusion work with clubs and the performance pathway.

Katie Campbell, Aquatics Development Officer at South Ayrshire Council, said; “We are proud of the opportunities that we provide for young people and adults with disabilities.We have trained coaches who have come through our disability pathway to now coach and pass on their knowledge to younger generations. Our Learn to Swim programme underlines the importance of our facilities which are transforming lives and helping people from all walks of life to achieve their ambitions.”

Learn to Swim ambassador and World Para Swimming World Champion Toni Shaw said: “I’m really proud to be an ambassador for the Learn to Swim Framework and really pleased that children with a disability are taught in inclusive learn to swim environments.”