Joining our club means becoming part of an inclusive and supportive community dedicated to helping individuals of all abilities develop their swimming skills in a safe and enjoyable environment. As a member, you’ll have access to a variety of swimming sessions, from competitive training to fun and social activities. In addition to swimming, we offer a range of exciting events, trips, and opportunities to connect with others, making your membership a truly rewarding experience.

Applying for membership

If you would like to be considered for membership, please contact the Club Secretary using the  Contact Us form to confirm eligibility to apply . You can download a membership application form here, which will be processed in accordance with our membership procedure. Due to time and space constraints at the pool, we can only accommodate a limited number of swimmers each week, and due to this, we ask you to be patient if we cannot grant you a membership instantly.  We need to balance our existing members' needs and be happy to accept new members with your needs too. 

There is usually a waiting list in operation, with priority given to Blackpool residents. Before any individual is permitted to swim, we will assess their support needs and capabilities. When you get in touch, you will have the opportunity to explain your circumstances, and we will do our best to help and support you.

The Steps to gaining a membership

First step is to confirm eligibility and as a general rule - any person with a recognised disability is eligible to apply for membership. Once you've viewed the form and procedures linked above - to apply, please get in touch with the Chair of the Swimming & Social Committee on 07948 208765 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. They will guide you through the application process.

Every applicant will be treated fairly and consistently, but priority is given to individuals in the Blackpool area. An ASA-qualified swimming coach will assess each applicant's abilities and support needs, considering any relevant medical, behavioural, and disability information the applicant provides.

Membership will only be offered once the swimming assessment has been satisfactorily completed and it is confirmed that the club can meet the applicant's needs. The assessment priority is based on the time spent on the waiting list.

After the swimming assessment, the applicant must complete the Membership Form if not done already. A committee member will then explain the club rules and Moor Park safety arrangements to the applicant (and, if applicable, their parent or carer). The applicant must sign the form to confirm they agree to follow these rules and regulations. Membership will be granted, and the individual will be permitted to swim once the form is signed and membership fees have been paid.

What is in our membership? 

Our members' handbook contains everything you need to know about the benefits of membership, including session details, galas and competitions, and the support available to help you reach your swimming potential. The handbook covers a lot, and the overview of the contents is at the end of this post. The whole handbook is available here Members' Handbook 

Managing if things go wrong

We strive to provide an enjoyable experience for everyone, but we understand that sometimes things can go wrong. If you have any concerns about training or lessons, please talk with the swimming teacher through the Head Coach. For issues related to the operation of the swimming club or social activities, please speak with the Chair or Vice Chair of the Swimming & Social Committee. If you are not satisfied with these discussions, please feel free to contact a trustee before raising a formal complaint.  

Suspension and Termination of Membership

Membership may be suspended if:

• A signed Membership Form and membership fees are not received by the date specified in the renewal notice.
• An individual misses four consecutive swimming sessions without prior notice or a valid reason.
• An individual is involved in an incident deemed "major" by the Chair of the Swimming & Social Committee.
• An individual receives three written warnings about their behaviour or conduct within one year.

Membership may be terminated if:

• Membership fees are not paid within six weeks of the specified renewal date, unless an extended payment period has been agreed by the Chair of the Swimming & Social Committee or Treasurer.
• The member (or their parent/carer) fails to pay within the agreed timescales for an activity where their participation was confirmed, and funds were provided by Blackpool Polar Bears.
• The individual's behaviour or conduct is found to be unacceptable.

Blackpool Polar Bears Members' Handbook – Contents Overview

1. Introduction to Blackpool Polar Bears
   A description of the club's history, mission, and commitment to providing inclusive swimming opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

2. Swimming Sessions and Timetables
   Details of the weekly swimming schedule, including competitive sessions and learn-to-swim classes.

3. Badges and Certificates
   Information on the awards members can earn through their progress, aligned with the ASA National Plan for Teaching Swimming.

4. Club Galas and Competitions
   An overview of annual club galas, regional and national competitions, including Special Olympics events.

5. Additional Club Activities
   Information on water polo, fun sessions, kayaking, and other occasional water-based activities.

6. Trips and Holidays
   Details of club-organised trips to places such as outdoor activity centres (Calvert Trust and Bendrigg), as well as social outings to theme parks, aquariums, and more.

7. Social Events
   An outline of social gatherings like the Christmas Party, Awards Presentation, and Halloween Party.

8. Membership Fees and Structure
   Explanation of the annual membership fees, payment timelines, and what the fees cover, including pool hire, lifeguards, insurance, and equipment.

9. Fundraising and Donations
   A description of the club's reliance on fundraising, and the various ways members can support through raffles, prize draws, and the sponsored swim event.

10. Volunteering Opportunities
    Information on the various volunteer roles available, including water helpers, event escorts, and coaching opportunities.

11. Applications for Membership
    The process for membership application includes waiting list details and the membership assessment for individuals with disabilities.

12. Club Rules and Codes of Conduct
    Comprehensive rules for swimmers, parents, and volunteers, along with expected behaviour and procedures for addressing incidents.

13. Health and Safety Information
    Guidance on the use of changing facilities, lockers, poolside rules, and safety protocols, including fire alarm procedures and first aid arrangements.

14. Safeguarding and Welfare Policy
    Information about the club's commitment to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, including contact details for the Safeguarding & Welfare Officer.

15. Data Protection and Confidentiality
    An explanation of how the club collects, uses, and stores members' personal information in compliance with GDPR, including guidance on accessing personal records.

16. Merchandise
    Details of club-branded merchandise available for purchase, including polo shirts, backpacks, towels, and other items, with profits supporting club activities.