Families in Portsmouth are being encouraged to book swimming lessons ahead of the summer holidays as part of a new national campaign aimed at improving water safety. Launched on 7 May 2026, the #LoveSwimming initiative, supported by BH Live and Swim England, highlights the importance of children learning how to stay calm and safe in the water.
International swimmer and broadcaster Michael Gunning, who is fronting the campaign, says there is a significant difference between a child who can swim and one who is truly water safe. He notes that being able to float, stay calm, and handle themselves in open water are vital skills that take time to build. Helen Marney, director of community participation and health at Swim England, added that many summer water tragedies are preventable if children receive consistent, structured lessons.
To help local families, BH Live continues to offer a policy where children under 12 can swim for free when accompanied by a fully paying adult or BH Live Active adult member. This offer is available at leisure centres across the city, including the Mountbatten Leisure Centre, which is owned by Portsmouth City Council and operated in partnership with the charity.
While the city council also runs a separate Free Swimming Scheme for residents aged 12 and under in the PO1 to PO6 postcode areas, this programme does not include swimming lessons. Parents are encouraged to book lessons directly through BH Live to ensure children gain the necessary safety skills before the break begins.
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