The prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Australia is estimated to be 1 in 70 people are on the autism spectrum. ASD is a condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, interacts with others and experiences their environment. A person with Autism may have trouble interacting socially, may show repetitive patterns of behaviour and be sensitive to sounds, smells, touch, taste or vision.

People with ASD are at increased risk of drowning as they are often drawn to water, having a greater tendency to wander, leaving a safe area in search of a retreat away from overstimulation (crowds, noise etc.). At times, this natural gravitation towards waters is a means of alleviating their sensory needs without understanding the risk it may present.

Royal Life Saving Australia suggests parents and caregivers of children with diagnosed ASD or with suspected ASD should be counselled on the increased risks of drowning and strategies to reduce risk. Strategies include active adult supervision and barriers to restricting access to the water.

Belgravia Foundation and Belgravia Leisure are aware that disability has been listed as a barrier to participation in swimming lessons. Within the municipality of Knox, approximately 28,000 people have a disability of some kind, equating to 17% of Knox City Council residents.

Knox Leisureworks Aquatic and Recreation Centre, proudly managed by Belgravia Leisure, understand the importance of water safety and seeks to break down barriers to participation within the municipality of Knox. Additionally, Knox Lesiureworks strives to create a safe and welcoming environment, fostering a sense of community and social connection. Knox Leisureworks acknowledge the difficulties to find appropriate programming and services for families living with children with ASD and has partnered with Belgravia Foundation and Different Journeys to introduce Autism Family Swim Nights at Knox Leisureworks.

Different Journeys specialises in helping teens and adults living with Autism, and their families, to come together and socialise. It is an opportunity in a safe, friendly and supportive environment. Their mission is to “empower people with ASD”.

With funding support from Knox City Council, Different Journeys and Knox Leisureworks have been coordinating Autism Family Swim Nights to build families and participants aquatic confidence and capability in a safe environment, whilst also emphasising social connection and a sense of community, linking with various support services. 

The Autism Family Swim Nights are hosted throughout the calendar year on Sunday from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Knox Leisureworks is closed to the public at this time, only allowing registered participants in the facility. Additionally, the majority of the water features in the pool area are turned off to ensure the noise on the pool deck is kept at an adequate level.

Knox Leisureworks staff are eager to be involved in the event. This year, Knox Leisureworks provided a Café Staff member to oversee the food preparation and support the Different Journey’s team, in addition to, a qualified Access and Inclusion Swim teacher who is in the water liaising with participants and families, encouraging safe water play.

Different Journeys Executive Officer, Mel Spencer explained “Working collaboratively with Knox Leisureworks supported through a Knox Council Community Grant has enabled positive working relationships to foster with a shared vision of being able to raise awareness, understanding and support for our autistic community.  It is a mutually beneficial relationship where we both learn from each other for the benefit of the autistic community.”

Between various lockdowns in Metropiliatian Melbourne this year, the small number of events hosted saw an average attendance rate of 75 participants. Testimonials from the families who’ve attended the ASD Family Swim nights illustrate the importance of these events, stating:

“Benefits are the open range of pools where kids can be who they want with no judgment. It’s also an opportunity for our children to make friends on their own level”

“It’s great for all ages. It’s a relief that is closed to the public as it allows us to access the community in a safe way”

“My family and I love coming. It’s a great place to feel included, welcomed and it is convenient and we always have a good time.”

Belgravia Foundation understands the importance of creating a welcoming, safe, inclusive place to connect all to leisure. Currently, Knox Leisureworks and Different Journeys are working together on innovative ideas to codesign and coaction programs for people with ASD. For more details of all upcoming events and programs, please follow the link to the Different Journeys website.

Belgravia Foundation looks forward to the continued partnership with Different Journeys.