Hanoi (VNA) - People with disabilities in Singapore can soon join free water safety lessons under a new initiative that aims to make swimming more accessible.
Singapore’s first such programme was launched on October 4 by OCBC Bank and the Singapore Disability Sports Council (SDSC), Singapore’s national sports body for people with disabilities.
A total of 800 free lessons will be made available for 100 people with disabilities across 12 months, under the OCBC-SDSC SwimTogether programme.
Each participant will undergo eight swimming lessons over a three-month period. Each class will consist of two to five students.
OCBC said in a statement that there is a lack of structured foundational swimming programmes for those with disabilities, largely due to the high cost of hiring certified coaches, lack of suitable equipment and limited accessible sports facilities. The transportation arrangement can also be costly.
The bank will donate 70,000 SGD (over 54 USD) to engage certified coaches, procure specialised equipment, and book suitable venues, including heated pools and facilities with accessible entry points.
Classes will focus on water safety, which includes water confidence and basic swimming skills. The coaches are also trained to identify students’ needs based on their varying levels of disability./.
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