Byw’n Iach is proud to announce a partnership with Gwersyll yr Urdd Glan-llyn in order to offer Swim Safe Cymru provision for children who will attend outdoor courses at the camp and with the Outdoor Service. Swim Safe is a scheme created by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and the National Governing Body of Swim England back in 2013. It has now been adopted by Nofio Cymru and provision across Wales has grown over the years, including across Gwynedd. The purpose of the activity is to educate individuals about the dangers of open water, self-rescue techniques, and how to call for help. The best way to pass on these important messages is by stepping into the water and practicing!
Wales is a country of beautiful coastline and beautiful natural landscape. It is also a country that receives a lot of rain to feed the rivers and lakes. According to Tomos Lloyd, Byw’n Iach’s Outdoor Activities Development Officer,
“We want the children of Gwynedd to enjoy and have access to water and outdoor activities, but it is important to recognize the dangers and ensure that good decisions are made. By providing Swim Safe Cymru accreditation we are increasing awareness and hopefully giving children the confidence to take advantage of outdoor opportunities through specific clubs or programs.”
Since 2022 we at Byw’n Iach have been, and still are, providing sessions for primary school children across Gwynedd. Thanks to Actif North Wales the innovative partnership with Gwersyll yr Urdd Glan-llyn wants to give an opportunity to teach even more children, who are already going on outdoor residential courses.
Dyfed Davies, Byw’n Iach’s Swimming and Water Activities Development Officer, said
“We are passionate about water safety, not only in swimming lessons in the centers but on our beaches, in our lakes and rivers. You never know when these skills will be needed so the more opportunities there are the better. This partnership aims to ensure that hundreds of children get the best experience and training for years to come”
Everyone who takes part will receive a certificate and a swimming cap to remind them of the activity.
For more information about the principles and content of the scheme go to Swim Safe.
