We are a thriving multi-disability swimming and recreation club that provides opportunities for individuals with physical or learning disabilities. We offer a welcoming, inclusive environment where members can participate in various activities, from swimming lessons to social events, alongside their families, carers, and the wider community.
Our club operates every Sunday at Moor Park Swimming Pool, providing Learner and Competitive swimming lessons. Members are allocated a session based on their ability, ensuring everyone can make the most of their time in the water.
In addition to swimming, we provide a range of exciting activities throughout the year that allow members to grow in confidence, socialise, and have fun.
Swimming Activities
Club Galas: We organise two themed club galas each year, where swimmers can compete with others of similar ability and challenge themselves to improve their performance. Everyone is encouraged to beat their previous times, and each participant receives a medal or award. Our galas serve as a stepping stone for swimmers to take part in regional and national competitions through affiliated organisations like NASCH (National Association of Swimming Clubs) and Special Olympics Great Britain. For some of our swimmers, these galas have led to incredible achievements at national events, including the UK Special Olympics Summer Games, where our members have won numerous gold, silver, and bronze medals. You can view Event Picture Gallery here.
Badges and Certificates: Our club follows the ASA National Plan for Teaching Swimming, where swimmers can earn certificates and badges based on their progress. This system recognizes their hard work and dedication and motivates them to achieve new milestones.
Other Swimming Activities: Besides swimming lessons, we occasionally run sessions for Water Polo and Fun/Play activities, ensuring members have varied and enjoyable experiences in the pool.
View our Competitions and Awards Gallary and celebrate the incredible achievements of our swimmers at every level, from local meets to national and Special Olympics events. This collection showcases the dedication, talent, and perseverance of our athletes as they proudly display their gold, silver, and bronze medals, alongside an array of trophies and special awards. Whether it's the thrill of a podium finish, the unforgettable moments of triumph at a Special Olympics event, or the personal victories at regional and club galas, each image tells a story of determination, teamwork, and celebration. Beyond the medals, you’ll see the joy of achievement, the camaraderie among swimmers, and the unwavering support of coaches, carers, and volunteers who make every success possible. Explore the gallery and experience the spirit of competition, inclusion, and the unbreakable bonds that define Blackpool Polar Bears.
Social Activities
Blackpool Polar Bears is committed to providing members with opportunities to engage in social and leisure activities outside the pool.
Social Events: We host an annual Christmas Party, where members receive presents from Father Christmas, and an Awards Presentation and disco following the Annual General meeting in February. We also celebrate events like Halloween and key occasions like Jubilees with fun-filled parties. View the gallery with many of the happy faces in our Socials Gallery.
Trips and Holidays: We organise various trips and holidays, including visits to adventure centres like the Calvert Trust and Bendrigg Trust, both of which specialise in activities for disabled individuals. In recent years, we’ve also arranged trips to theme parks, aquariums, and other local attractions, such as Chester Zoo, Blue Planet Aquarium, and the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, offering members and their families enjoyable days out. Some of our trips can be viewed in our Socials Gallery.
Links to some of the places we've been
- Calvert Trust Activity Centre: Located in the stunning Lake District, the Calvert Trust Activity Centre provides accessible outdoor adventures for individuals with disabilities. Activities range from climbing and abseiling to canoeing and horse riding, all tailored to meet the needs of people of all abilities. With experienced instructors and a supportive environment, it’s a place for building confidence and creating unforgettable memories.
- Bendrigg Trust Activity Centre: The Bendrigg Trust, near Kendal, specialises in providing inclusive outdoor experiences for individuals with disabilities. Its state-of-the-art facilities include climbing walls, zip wires, and adapted equipment to ensure everyone can participate. The centre focuses on teamwork, personal development, and the sheer joy of adventure in a safe, welcoming environment.
- Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway: This charming heritage steam railway runs through the picturesque Leven Valley in the Lake District. It’s a nostalgic trip through the beautiful countryside.
- Boat trip to Ambleside finishing at Brockholes Estate: This scenic boat trip across Lake Windermere takes passengers from the bustling lakeside town of Ambleside to Brockhole Estate, the Lake District Visitor Centre. Along the way, we enjoyed stunning views of the surrounding fells and serene waters. At Brockhole, visitors can explore beautiful gardens, an adventure playground, and various family-friendly activities.
- Blue Planet Aquarium: Located in Ellesmere Port near Chester, the Blue Planet Aquarium is home to a fascinating array of marine life. Highlights include an underwater tunnel with 360-degree views of sharks, rays, and colourful fish swimming overhead. The aquarium also features interactive displays and educational talks, making it a great day out for all ages.
- Mersey Ferry: The iconic Mersey Ferry offers a unique way to explore Liverpool and its waterfront. With daily cruises along the River Mersey, we enjoyed panoramic views of the city’s skyline and learned about its maritime history.
- Chester Zoo: One of the UK’s most renowned zoos, Chester Zoo is on a 127-acre site and home to over 37,000 animals representing 500 species worldwide. Situated just outside the historic city of Chester, the zoo combines conservation efforts with immersive exhibits, such as the Islands Adventure, where visitors can experience recreated tropical environments. It's a fantastic destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
Blackpool Polar Bears in the Press – A Legacy of Impact
Over the years, Blackpool Polar Bears has made waves far beyond the swimming pool, capturing the attention of local and regional newspapers with our achievements in competition, fundraising successes, and unwavering commitment to the community. This collection of press cuttings offers a glimpse into the club’s journey, highlighting inspirational swimmer successes, medal-winning performances at major events, and the dedicated efforts of our volunteers and supporters. From front-page stories celebrating triumphs at the Special Olympics and NASCH competitions to features on our community outreach and fundraising initiatives, these articles reflect the deep-rooted impact the club has made. While this is just a selection of our media presence over the years, it tells a powerful story of inclusion, perseverance, and the recognition Blackpool Polar Bears has earned as a force for positive change. View our Blackpool Polar Bears in the Press gallery and relive the moments that have shaped our legacy.
How You Can Get Involved
Our activities are made possible by the dedication of our team of volunteers and the generous support of organisations like Blackpool Council, who provide us with pool facilities, qualified swimming teachers, and lifeguards. We are also grateful to businesses such as Glasdon UK, Big Lottery Fund, Morrisons Foundation, and The Sandcastle Water Park, whose contributions help us organise fundraising events and ensure the smooth running of the club.
There are many ways you or your business can support Blackpool Polar Bears. From volunteering as a teacher or "Helper in the Water" to donating raffle prizes or sponsoring our events, every contribution makes a difference. Whether you're a local business, a member of the community, or someone looking to get involved in a meaningful way, we welcome your support in helping us continue our mission of providing recreational, leisure, and social integration opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
For more information on our activities, to apply for membership, or to get involved, please get in touch with us today. Together, we can ensure that Blackpool Polar Bears continues to thrive as a supportive community where everyone has the opportunity to succeed and enjoy swimming.
