We try discuss swimming options with the schools the year before and if necessary contact the LA Swimming Co-ordinator to ensure that the correct provision is booked rather than wait until its too late to change. There are just some pools that it wont work for, so if we can avoid that we will. We worked with the LA a few years ago when they were upgrading one of their pools and helped them to understand what a PD child might need. It wasn't an easy task but has been so worthwhile. We now has a totally accessible pool which we are incredibly proud of. It includes two pool side platforms (one for each pool) which allows the poolside wheelchairs to be placed directly onto them, they are then lowered into the water using the remote control, the CYP can then be helped off the chair and start their swim. The third fun pool is sloped which can allow a poolside chair to be walked straight into the water and the CYP slipped off to the waiting adult/adults.
The changing rooms are spacious, with enough room for at least two adults plus CYP and equipment. They have a hoist, height adjustable plinth, height adjustable sink and even a height adjustable mirror as well as toilet system that is totally accessible. It was well worth being involved at the early stages of the planning. We have on a couple of occasions taken swimming session at a local Special School but with the new pool being open this should need to happen now.
