Children unable to swim across the borough are to be provided free swimming lessons as part of a new council programme.

Richmond Council announced the launch of its new Summer Splash scheme on Wednesday 29 May "to ensure that no child in Richmond upon Thames is priced out of keeping happy and active through swimming".

A number of five-day swimming 'crash courses' will be made available for school children in years five, six, and seven, who are unable to confidently swim 25m and perform 'safe self-rescue', which the council says this is a requirement for all students in KS2.

Sessions will run at both Pools on the Park and Teddington Pool this summer.

Councillor Alan Juriansz, Vice-Chair of the Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee and Lead Member for Sport said: "No child should be priced out of learning to swim [...] an important life-saving skill. 

"With the River Thames at the heart of our borough, we are lucky to have many water-based activities our residents can get involved in, including rowing, paddleboarding and sailing. 

"Being able to swim is a necessary skill to be able to participate in many of these great things on offer."

Alongside this new scheme, discounted swimming lessons will be made available for all children in the borough for only £1, requiring a valid Leisure and Youth Card.

These are free for anyone under the age of 16 who lives or is educated in the borough, with applications accepted through the council's website here.

Summer Splash General Swims can be booked via the LBRUT Sports App, by online bookings website, by calling 020 3772 2999 or in-person at the centre up to seven days in advance.

More information regarding Summer Splash can be found on Richmond Council website here. If you believe your child is eligible for a free swimming crash course, you can also email [email protected] to start the process.