Summer SEND sessions at Crediton and Tiverton pools have earned their permanent place on the holiday timetable after strong community support.

Active Mid Devon’s swim sessions for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) welcomed more than 180 attendees during the summer holidays. The initiative, delivered as part of the Active Champs movement, has proven such a success that the sessions will now be a permanent feature of Active Mid Devon’s school holiday timetable.

The SEND swim sessions were designed to provide a calmer, more welcoming swimming environment for children with special educational needs and disabilities, helping families access physical activity in a setting tailored to their needs.

Feedback gathered during the programme showed that 100% of respondents felt welcome and included, with families praising the quieter environment, supportive staff and opportunity for children to enjoy swimming with confidence.

As part of the project, Active Mid Devon also introduced virtual walkthrough videos of both Tiverton and Crediton pools, allowing children and their families to familiarise themselves with the facilities before they arrive, helping to reduce anxiety and make visits more comfortable and predictable.

Councillor Josh Wright, Cabinet Member for Service Delivery and Continuous Improvement, said:

"We're delighted with the response to our SEND swim sessions and proud to see the positive difference they've made for local families. The feedback has been incredibly encouraging, and making these sessions a permanent part of our school holiday programme demonstrates our commitment to creating inclusive opportunities for everyone to be active and enjoy our leisure facilities."

The success of the programme would not have been possible without the dedication of local resident Stevie, whose passion and commitment helped drive the project from the outset.

"We would like to extend a huge thank you to Stevie, who has been a passionate advocate for inclusive swimming opportunities. Alongside the Active Champs programme, she has played a key role in championing the sessions, helping to raise awareness among local families and create a welcoming environment where people feel comfortable, supported and included."

Active Mid Devon was recently recognised by Active Devon in an article, which showcased the positive impact of inclusive activities delivered across the county and highlighted the work taking place in Tiverton and Crediton.

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For more information about Active Mid Devon's SEND swim sessions and upcoming holiday activities, visit activemiddevon.com/send-swims.