We are proud to be affiliated with two prestigious organisations: Special Olympics Great Britain and the National Association of Swimming Clubs for the Handicapped (NASCH). These partnerships provide invaluable opportunities and support for our club and members, ensuring we continue to deliver a safe, inclusive, and thriving swimming environment.
Special Olympics Great Britain
Our affiliation with Special Olympics Great Britain allows our swimmers to be part of the North West Region Team, participating in regional and national events. Special Olympics GB is one of the world’s largest sports organisations for individuals with intellectual disabilities, providing year-round training and competition opportunities.
Through this partnership, our members have had the chance to compete in high-profile events, including the UK Special Olympics Summer Games. Over the years, our swimmers have excelled at these competitions, bringing home numerous gold, silver, and bronze medals. These events provide life-changing experiences for our athletes, allowing them to showcase their talents, build confidence, and develop lifelong friendships.
Being part of Special Olympics Great Britain also connects us to a global network, offering pathways for our members to participate in international competitions, such as the World Special Olympics, where one of our swimmers proudly represented Great Britain.
National Association of Swimming Clubs for the Handicapped (NASCH)
Our affiliation with NASCH provides vital support and resources to our club. NASCH ensures that Blackpool Polar Bears has the necessary Public Liability Insurance to safeguard our activities and protect our members. This coverage includes insurance for all our specialist equipment, ensuring we can offer adaptive and safe swimming experiences for individuals with disabilities.
In addition to insurance, NASCH facilitates access to various swimming competitions, encouraging our swimmers to engage in events where they can challenge themselves and grow in confidence. Many of our members have successfully competed in regional and national galas hosted by NASCH, broadening their horizons and allowing them to shine on a larger stage.
The Benefits of Affiliation
Our affiliation with Special Olympics Great Britain and NASCH offers several key benefits:
Our swimmers can participate in a variety of competitions, from local galas to national championships, and even international events like the World Special Olympics. These opportunities allow our swimmers to develop their skills, build self-esteem, and represent their community on a global stage.
Insurance and Equipment Protection: NASCH provides public liability insurance for our club and coverage for our specialist equipment, ensuring that we operate safely and effectively.
Recognition and Progression: These affiliations formalise our club’s commitment to offering quality services and opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Being part of these organisations connects us to a broader network, offering support, resources, and pathways for progression.
Our swimmers feel a sense of pride and belonging, knowing they are part of recognised organisations that value their contributions. This sense of community and recognition helps foster a positive environment where members feel motivated to participate, improve, and succeed. Many of our swimmers have shown significant personal growth and development through their participation in these events.
These affiliations also provide essential training and guidance for our volunteers, ensuring they have the skills and knowledge to support our swimmers safely and effectively. The support and training provided by Special Olympics GB and NASCH are invaluable in ensuring our volunteers can provide the best possible experience for our swimmers.
How Our Affiliations Benefit You
For our members, being part of a club affiliated with these organisations means access to world-class competitions, structured training programs, and a supportive community where each swimmer is valued and encouraged. The structure provided by Special Olympics GB and NASCH allows us to offer pathways for all abilities, from Learner to Competitive swimming, ensuring that each swimmer reaches their full potential. Whether earning badges and certificates through our club galas or competing on the national stage, our affiliations ensure that we provide a comprehensive and rewarding experience for all.
Please get in touch with us if you would like to learn more about our affiliations or how you can get involved with Blackpool Polar Bears. With the support of Special Olympics Great Britain and NASCH, we are making a real difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities.
