I’m raising money for Wandsworth swimming club and WASA Disability Swimming to help provide access for children of all abilities to learn to swim in a safe, supportive environment with qualified and friendly instructors.

This video shows how many families of children with a range of disabilities benefit hugely from the coaching and volunteers at WASA Disability swimming: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0gv4Ir1JadY

Having been a competitive swimmer all my life, I’m passionate about the benefits of swimming as a life skill, as well as the ability of good swimming teachers and coaches to maximise a child’s potential.

The UK sees more than one drowning per day each year and, according to the National Water Safety Forum, 45% of children aged 7-11 cannot swim 25 metres unaided.

I am preparing to embark on an intrepid 5-day swim trek. At the end of January, I will attempt to swim a 20-mile route through the chilly waters of the Galápagos Islands, navigating difficult currents and overcoming my deep fear of one of the natural inhabitants – sharks!

The cost of the trip has already been funded and all donations will go directly to Help give children access to swimming pools and much-needed equipment.

Many thanks in advance for any and all donations, no matter how small.

Wish me luck.

Bill.