Who are Blackpool Polar Bears?
Blackpool Polar Bears is a multi-disability swimming and recreation group for the local community with physical or learning disabilities. It encompasses families, carers and other agencies and aims to provide opportunities for recreational, leisure and social integration. We are based at Moor Park Swimming Pool, Bristol Avenue, Blackpool FY2 0JG.
We operate an open door policy for disabled people and their families, which encourages new members of the community to access facilities they would not normally use. Strong relationships have been established with local respite centres, schools and mainstream swimming clubs for members wishing to further their abilities. By this, our club has been able to create direct pathways and progress their curriculum to community activity.
The club operates learner and competitive swimming lessons, which allow disabled members, their able-bodied families with disabled children, and adults to participate.
Our Vision
- Every individual with a disability is able to participate in a “learn to swim” scheme,
- can strive to achieve sporting excellence through competition and is
- supported to enable swimming and related social activities to be part of a healthy lifestyle choice.
Our Goals
- To provide a safe, reliable, enjoyable and affordable swimming experience for existing members and
- To Increase the opportunities for disabled people to learn to swim, participate in competition and incorporate swimming into their lifestyle.
Our Charity
- Registration No. 1082638
- Registered Address:
Blackpool Polar Bears, 7 Granville Road, Blackpool, FY1 3NL
Our Team
All volunteers have been subject to DBS clearance through Special Olympics GB. Teaching staff are trained to the appropriate ASA standard and "Helpers in the Water" have achieved the ASA Disabled Helpers qualification.