Help children learn how to Swim Safe in Sefton for free this summer

Swim Safe, the national outdoor swimming and water safety programme for 7-14-year- olds, is coming to Sefton for the first time this summer.

Run by Swim England and the RNLI, the free, fun activity teaches children how to swim outdoors and what do if they get into trouble. For the first time, parents and carers can book a free place for their children on a Swim Safe session in Sefton this summer.

The sessions will be held at Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre in Waterloo between Saturday 21st and Sunday 29th July. To book a place, visit www.swimsafe.org.uk

Children aged 7–14 who can swim at least 25 metres can take part. Wetsuits and swim hats will be provided for the session and all young people will get a free goody bag and T-shirt. Tina Pilkington, Swim Safe coordinator for Sefton, says: ‘Children love swimming outdoors, but swimming in the sea, rivers or lakes is very different to swimming in a pool, where most children learn.

‘Swim Safe is a free, fun activity that teaches kids lifelong skills that will help them enjoy open water safely. ‘Parents and carers are also encouraged to get involved and find out more about how their children can stay safe at the beach and by the open water. ‘Places are free to book at www.swimsafe.org.uk and children only need to bring their swim suit and a towel.’

Swim England and the RNLI launched Swim Safe in 2013 at a single venue in Cornwall. Now in its sixth year, Swim Safe has grown to include 29 locations across the UK hosting sessions for the public and local schools.

The sessions are delivered by local partners, including community groups, leisure providers, local councils and RNLI lifeguard teams. The Sefton sessions are being delivered by Active Sefton.