Breaking down barriers to water safety gave a special opportunity for Taranaki rangatahi and tamariki with Down Syndrome.

Following discussions with the Taranaki Down Syndrome Association and Sport Taranaki to identify community need, New Plymouth’s Fulton Swim School applied to deliver a tailored ‘learn to swim programme’ based at their private swim school.  Tū Manawa Active Aotearoa funding allowed the school to deliver a 10-week water-safety programme, led by a Swimming New Zealand qualified coach with a ‘teaching swimmers with special needs and/or disabilities award’.  

The proven benefits of water-based exercise for people with disabilities include not only the development of physical skills, but also social, emotional, cognitive and leisure skills. This structured programme, led by an experienced, compassionate, supportive instructor with a clear understanding of participants needs was an important opportunity for an often poorly served group.

“Initially my daughter had a fear of the water and wouldn’t get in, but now the problem is getting her out … There aren’t a lot of options for Down syndrome kids to be active so this is special. The fact there is no cost to her is nice.” - Mother of an 18-year-old girl in the programme

The programme’s success showed the importance of a qualified instructor to delivering a safe, structured, enjoyable and active session. There was a strong rapport between coach and participant in a safe, private setting that allowed the youth freedom to be active with their peers – something parents valued highly. There was no cost to participants, removing another potential barrier.

“Learning to swim is so important for life … his water confidence is developing really well … [The coach] is very good, the bespoke session is great.” -Father of 8-year-old boy in the programme

This experience shows the power of collaboration between physical activity provider, an organisation with direct links to a priority participant group of disabled people and Sport Taranaki’s Tū Manawa Active Aotearoa advisors who help bring concepts together that work for the community.

Article added: Friday 24 September 2021

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