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Northern Ireland's Leading Inclusive
Swim Programme 

Fun & Friendship Through Swimming

At Swimming Buddies, we are dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for children with Autism and neurodivergence to learn how to stay safe near water. Our experienced instructors tailor their approach to meet the unique needs of each child, ensuring a positive and inclusive swimming experience. We believe in the transformative power of swimming and its ability to boost confidence and improve physical well-being.

A coach in the pool with a buddie swimming in front of her

Water Safety

Our Swimming Programme focuses on teaching water safety in a fun and supportive setting. We aim to help everyone reach their full potential and stay safe in the water while making some new friends along the way. 

visual aids showing learning cues for swimming teaching by the side of the pool. It includes now, then, next and pictures of directions to take

Water Skills

Our Buddies are all individual learners and will have different journeys. Our small group sessions maintain a calming environment so our Buddies can learn what fundamental water skills they need to reach their full potential - whatever their goals!

A coach in the water with a little girl on a float smiling

Water Therapy

All our Autism Swim Certified coaches are matched to each Buddie's specific needs and personalities to help children become comfortable and confident in the water. With specialised techniques and a nurturing approach, we create a sensory outlet and love for water right from the start.

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91% of parents in our community have left other aquatic services due to them not understanding their child’s needs

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Children on the autism spectrum are 160 times more likely to drown than their peers

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1:5 people have a disability.
This means varying needs, goals, preferences and learning styles

Coach chris with his buddie in the pool

"Swimming Buddies has understood my child's needs and abilities without any judgement from the start. Callum was not afraid of water, which was my biggest fear. His coach has been able to teach him not only how to stay safe in and around the water, but various strokes above and below the surface. After 7 years Callum is now doing his Rookie Lifeguard skills training."

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