MORE THAN 700 primary school pupils across Anglesey have learned vital water safety and lifesaving skills through Môn Actif’s latest Swim Safe programme.
The programme is helping young people gain the confidence and knowledge to stay safe in and around water.
Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the initiative was delivered around National Drowning Prevention Week (June 13–20) and saw Year 5 and 6 pupils take part in a 12-day programme of practical and educational water safety sessions.
It was delivered by Môn Actif in partnership with a range of national and local organisations, equipping children with practical skills that could one day save lives.
Swim Safe will continue throughout the summer holidays, with more than 500 children and families expected to benefit from a further series of community water safety activities, including canoeing, paddleboarding, surfing and more.
Water safety education will also feature in every Môn Actif leisure sports camp this summer.
Anglesey’s Leisure, Tourism and Maritime portfolio holder, Councillor Alun Roberts, said: “I’m extremely pleased to see so many children and families across Anglesey benefiting from this excellent Swim Safe programme.
“Living on an island, it is essential that our young people develop a healthy respect for the water and understand how to enjoy our coastline safely.
“This initiative not only teaches vital water safety and lifesaving skills, but also encourages children and families to be active, build confidence and enjoy the many opportunities our natural environment has to offer.
“The success of Swim Safe demonstrates what can be achieved through strong partnership working, and I would like to thank everyone involved in delivering these activities.
“As a Council, we remain committed to supporting opportunities that help create a safer, healthier and more active Anglesey for current and future generations.”
Barry Edwards, Môn Actif Localities and Sports Development Manager, added: “The Swim Safe campaign is vitally important for our children and young people here on Anglesey.
“Living on an island surrounded by water, understanding how to stay safe in and around the sea is not just beneficial – it is an essential life skill.
“The number of near-misses and dangerous incidents witnessed on our coastline in recent years highlights just how important this work is.
“Through Swim Safe, we are giving children the knowledge, confidence and practical skills they need to recognise risks, make safer decisions and know what to do should they find themselves or others in difficulty.
“As organisations and communities, we have a duty of care to ensure this education remains a priority. By continuing to invest in water safety awareness and lifesaving skills, we can help prevent future tragedies and ultimately save lives.”
With UK Shared Prosperity Fund funding coming to an end this summer, Môn Actif is now seeking grant funding and support from new partners to help secure the long-term future of the Swim Safe programme.
Local businesses, organisations and potential sponsors interested in supporting the initiative are encouraged to email [email protected].
Details of the summer community water safety programme, including booking information, will be shared on Môn Actif’s social media channels in the coming weeks.
Summer community water safety programme:
- Canoe Adventure Day – July 24
- Community Swim Safe event – July 25
- Surfing camps – July 28, August 11, August 12 and August 18
- Paddleboarding camps – July 30, August 13 and August 20
- Water safety sessions at every Môn Actif leisure sports camp throughout the summer holidays
