Overview
Swimming is a great way to get the whole family involved and with many swimming pools having improved accessibility it also becomes easier for people with disabilities. Water allows you to move in ways you cannot on land and can support pain relief and calm sensory needs.
Escape Support Group run a monthly swimming session for their members at Taunton Pool. A chance to relax together with other families with additional needs. SASP offer disability sessions in Goldenstones Pool (Yeovil). Nova Sports and Coaching run a weekly Frome Otters Hydro Club as part of the Community Inclusion and Activity Team Club Activities Calendar for ALL children and young people in Somerset with a disability or additional needs.
Swimming pools are beginning to offer quieter or SEND sessions to be more accessible to those with additional needs. Swim teachers who have qualified with Swim England will adapt their lessons accordingly so that all learners have the opportunity to learn to swim in a mainstream setting and feel included. The learner may also receive extra support and encouragement as they make smaller steps through complementary Awards.
The equipment that you can find at most swimming pools includes
- disabled toilet
- accessible parking
- accessible changing
- lift
Swimming pools that offer a pool hoist and/or ramp access include:
- Taunton Pool
- Blackbrook Leisure Centre & Spa (Taunton)
- Wellington Sports Centre
- Goldenstones Leisure (Yeovil)
- Strode Swimming Pool
- Harry’s Hydro (Frome)
- Brean Leisure Park 25m pool
- Compass Wellbeing Taunton (must bring your own sling)
Swimming pools that also offer a wet wheelchair as well as pool hoist and/or ramp access include:
- Chard Leisure Centre
- Butlins (Minehead)
There are also many different leisure centres around Somerset that offer facilities like
- gym equipment
- tennis courts
- sports halls
- group fitness clubs
- swimming pools with teaching lessons available