Belgravia Foundation Celebrates Inclusive and Impactful initiative at Michael Wenden Aquatic Leisure Centre.

Belgravia Foundation proudly celebrates inclusive and impactful initiative at Michael Wenden Aquatic Leisure Centre.

Reflecting the shared commitment between Belgravia Foundation and Belgravia Leisure, this program reduces the barriers and supporting community wellbeing. At Michael Wenden Aquatic Leisure Centre, a gentle splash has made powerful waves in the lives of local families. The Mothers and Infants Learn to Swim program, developed in partnership with National Community Hubs Liverpool, Liverpool City Council, and local community organisations, has opened doors to water safety, confidence, and connection for women and children new to swimming.  

The need for the program was identified through engagement with newly arrived migrant and refugee families, many of whom had never accessed a public aquatic centre. Women expressed a desire to learn swimming and water safety skills for themselves and their children, but felt unable to participate due to cultural, financial and practical barriers. By listening to community voices, the program was co-designed to meet those exact needs. 

Two ten-week blocks were delivered in a culturally responsive format, featuring female-only swim sessions, translated materials, and on-site babysitting for other children, making the experience stress-free and welcoming for mothers. These thoughtful supports ensured that all participants felt respected, safe, and able to engage fully. 

Throughout the program, attendance remained high and feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Centre staff and hub leaders conducted informal check-ins, and an end-of-term debrief, which revealed that the women not only gained confidence in the water but also a newfound connection to the centre. Many reported that they had never before considered swimming lessons but now saw aquatic spaces as safe and welcoming. 

The outcomes have been both meaningful and far-reaching. Families who were once absent from leisure centres are now active participants. Several mothers have enquired about continuing lessons or enrolling siblings in other aquatic programs. Teachers within the Community Hubs have even expressed interest in becoming swim instructors themselves; planting seeds for long-term, community-led change.