At Blackpool Polar Bears, we know that volunteering isn’t just about giving your time or helping others—it’s about finding joy, purpose, and fulfilment. Volunteering can make a real difference in the lives of our swimmers and have a profound impact on the lives of our volunteers.

Here are some of the many ways volunteering can bring happiness and positive change into your life:

1. Creating Meaningful Connections

Volunteering brings people together, creating strong bonds and a sense of community. When you volunteer, you meet people from all walks of life, each with their own stories, experiences, and perspectives. These interactions can foster deep and lasting friendships built on shared goals and the desire to make a difference. For many volunteers, the relationships they build are one of the most rewarding aspects of the experience.

2. Boosting Mental Wellbeing

Helping others has a powerful effect on mental health. Studies show that volunteering can reduce stress, combat depression, and improve mood. Giving—whether it’s your time, energy, or support—triggers the release of endorphins, often called "the happiness hormones." Knowing that your actions contribute to something bigger than yourself can lead to a sense of satisfaction and personal achievement that lifts your spirits and brightens your outlook on life.

3. Developing New Skills

Volunteering offers an excellent opportunity to learn new skills or build on existing ones. Whether assisting swimmers, managing events, or helping with administration, each volunteer role provides valuable experiences that can boost your confidence and enhance your abilities. These skills enrich your personal development and can also be helpful in your professional life, opening up new opportunities and enhancing your CV.

4. A Sense of Purpose

Sometimes, life can feel a little directionless, especially during challenging times. Volunteering gives you a clear sense of purpose. Knowing that your efforts are directly contributing to the well-being and success of others can provide a renewed sense of focus and motivation. For our volunteers at Blackpool Polar Bears, supporting swimmers to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals is a truly rewarding experience that instils a strong sense of purpose.

5. Making a Tangible Difference

One of the greatest joys of volunteering is knowing that your actions have a real impact. At Blackpool Polar Bears, every volunteer plays an essential role in the success of our swimmers and the club as a whole. Whether helping someone get into the water for the first time or supporting them to achieve a personal milestone, your contribution makes a direct and lasting difference in their lives. This accomplishment can be profoundly fulfilling and bring a profound sense of joy.

6. Increased Empathy and Compassion

Volunteering allows you to see the world through the eyes of others. Working with people from different backgrounds, abilities, and perspectives helps develop empathy and understanding. It teaches you to appreciate the unique challenges and triumphs of others and that a deeper connection to humanity can lead to a greater sense of compassion in your everyday life. Many volunteers find that this empathy enhances their relationships and brings meaning to their daily interactions.

7. Having Fun While Giving Back

Let’s not forget one of the most important benefits—volunteering is fun! Whether you’re cheering on swimmers, participating in events, or working behind the scenes, fun’s always involved. At Blackpool Polar Bears, our volunteers enjoy being part of a vibrant and positive community where every session is filled with laughter, encouragement, and a shared sense of achievement. Volunteering is about giving back, but it’s also about enjoying the journey and celebrating the moments along the way.

Conclusion
Volunteering isn’t just about what you give—it’s about what you gain. The happiness of helping others, building connections, and making a difference can’t be measured. At Blackpool Polar Bears, we see firsthand the positive impact of volunteering on our swimmers and volunteers.

Polar Bears Volunteering

We actively encourage parents, carers, and friends to support our activities. There are four types of volunteer roles, and individuals may take on one or more of these roles depending on their knowledge, skills, and experience:

• General Volunteer: This role involves supporting the club's running through various activities. General volunteers do not teach, train, or instruct members, nor do they provide personal care to club members (unless they are the recognised carer of the member).

• Adult Escort: This role involves supervising members during competitions and social events. Adult escorts do not teach, train, or instruct members, nor do they provide personal care to club members (unless they are the recognised carer of the member).

• Helper in the Water: This role involves assisting club members to participate in swimming activities. Responsibilities may include helping members get in and out of the pool and fitting swimming aids. Helpers are also responsible for appropriately preventing harm or injury during swimming activities. Volunteers must obtain the "Helper in the Water" training certificate to undertake this role.

• Teacher/Coach: This role involves providing swimming instruction, training, and coaching to club members. Volunteers must hold a recognised coaching qualification to perform this role.

All volunteers are subject to DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks to confirm their suitability for working with children and vulnerable adults, in line with the requirements of affiliated organisations.

We see how swimming can open doors for individuals with a wide range of disabilities. Swimming isn’t just a sport—it’s an adaptive activity that offers unique physical, mental, and emotional benefits, regardless of ability. Through personalised coaching and accessible facilities, our swimmers thrive in the water and beyond.

1. A Low-Impact Activity for All Abilities

One of the greatest benefits of swimming is its low-impact nature. For individuals with physical disabilities, the buoyancy of the water supports the body, reducing the strain on joints and muscles. This makes swimming an ideal activity for people with mobility challenges, as it allows for a full range of motion that may be difficult to achieve on land. Whether stretching, moving, or simply floating, swimming provides freedom and mobility in ways other activities can’t.

2. Tailored Support for Individual Needs

Every swimmer at Blackpool Polar Bears has unique abilities, and our sessions are designed to meet their specific needs. We use adaptive equipment, such as poolside hoists and floats, to ensure safe and comfortable access to the water. Our experienced coaches work closely with swimmers and their carers to create personalised plans that allow for gradual progress, ensuring that everyone can experience the joy of achievement regardless of their starting point.

3. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

For many of our swimmers, the pool is also a place of rehabilitation. Swimming offers a gentle way to build muscle strength, improve coordination, and enhance flexibility—all critical aspects for individuals recovering from injury or managing chronic conditions. The resistance of the water helps build endurance, while the supportive environment allows swimmers to engage in therapeutic movements that would otherwise be difficult. Swimming becomes a key part of their physical therapy, helping them to stay active and improve their overall health.

4. Boosting Confidence and Emotional Wellbeing

For many individuals with disabilities, the opportunity to swim can be transformative. Achieving personal milestones in the pool, no matter how small builds self-confidence and fosters a sense of independence. Swimming also provides a space where everyone is on equal footing—once in the water, barriers seem to disappear. The pool becomes a place of empowerment where individuals feel capable, valued, and supported by their peers and coaches. This boost in self-esteem has lasting effects, helping swimmers tackle challenges both in and out of the water.

5. A Place for Social Connection

Swimming at Blackpool Polar Bears isn’t just about individual progress—it’s also about being part of a community. Our swimmers develop friendships and social connections through shared experiences in the pool. For those with disabilities, social opportunities can sometimes be limited, but swimming provides a space where they can interact, communicate, and bond with others in a positive and inclusive environment. The social aspect of swimming plays an essential role in reducing feelings of isolation and fostering a sense of belonging.

6. Adapting to All Forms of Disabilities

Our club welcomes swimmers with various disabilities, whether they have physical, sensory, or intellectual challenges. We ensure that every swimmer can participate fully through adaptive techniques and specialised support. For instance, swimmers with visual impairments may use touch-based coaching techniques, while those with learning disabilities benefit from clear, simplified instructions and consistent encouragement. Our goal is to make the water a place where everyone can thrive, regardless of their circumstances.

7. The Freedom of Movement

For individuals with severe disabilities or mobility restrictions, being in the water can offer a rare and liberating experience of movement. Swimming allows them to experience freedom they may not have on land, encouraging both mental and physical relaxation. The simple act of floating or gentle movements in the water can provide a sense of freedom, joy, and accomplishment, helping to improve their overall quality of life.

We believe that swimming is more than just a sport—it’s a life-changing activity that brings a wide range of benefits to our swimmers physically and emotionally. Whether our members are improving their technique, building confidence, or simply enjoying the freedom of the water, swimming positively impacts their overall well-being.

Here are some of the incredible benefits swimming offers to our swimmers:

1. Improved Physical Health

Swimming is one of the best full-body exercises out there. It engages nearly every muscle group, helping to build strength, endurance, and flexibility. For our swimmers, particularly those with disabilities, swimming offers a low-impact form of exercise that’s gentle on the joints while still highly effective. It promotes cardiovascular health, improves lung capacity, and helps maintain a healthy weight. The buoyancy of the water also allows those with limited mobility to move more freely, making swimming an accessible activity for everyone.

2. Boosting Confidence

For many swimmers, taking to the pool is more than just a physical activity—it’s a journey towards building confidence and self-esteem. Overcoming challenges in the water, whether learning to float or mastering a new stroke, provides a sense of achievement and pride. Each small victory helps boost confidence, not just in swimming but in everyday life. Our inclusive and supportive environment ensures that every swimmer feels encouraged and valued, making the pool a place where personal growth happens naturally.

3. Mental Wellbeing and Stress Relief

Swimming has well-documented mental health benefits. Being in the water can have a calming effect, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. For our swimmers, the pool offers a space to escape the pressures of daily life, providing a safe, welcoming environment where they can focus on their own well-being. The rhythm of swimming, combined with the weightlessness in the water, creates a relaxing experience that can help improve mood and mental clarity. It’s a chance to let go of worries and enjoy the moment.

4. Social Interaction and Community

At Blackpool Polar Bears, swimming is as much about community as fitness. Our sessions bring together swimmers from all walks of life, creating a supportive and inclusive environment where friendships are formed and shared experiences are celebrated. The camaraderie between swimmers, coaches, and carers fosters a strong sense of belonging. This social aspect is essential for individuals who may feel isolated, providing an opportunity to connect with others in a positive and encouraging setting.

5. Encouraging Independence

Swimming encourages our members to become more independent in and out of the pool. Our swimmers develop skills to move more freely and confidently in the water through structured sessions and individualised coaching. For those with disabilities, this sense of independence is empowering, and the progress they make in swimming can often translate into other areas of life. The ability to set and achieve personal goals, however small, helps foster a sense of autonomy and accomplishment.

6. Fun and Enjoyment

Above all, swimming is fun! For many of our swimmers, the highlight of their week is spending time in the pool, enjoying the freedom of the water and the thrill of learning new skills. We strive to make every session enjoyable, ensuring that everyone feels part of the group and looks forward to returning week after week. Swimming with us isn’t just about physical and mental benefits—it’s about having a great time!

At Blackpool Polar Bears, we see first-hand the incredible impact that swimming has on the lives of our members. Whether it’s improving physical health, boosting confidence, or simply having fun, the benefits of swimming are immense. We’re proud to offer an inclusive, supportive environment where every swimmer can thrive, grow, and enjoy the many rewards of being part of our club.