Volunteer

We partner to run safe, fun and inclusive local swim clubs for disabled adults to get into the water. 

WeSwim are always looking for volunteers who are confident, compassionate, and care about building inclusive communities. You don't have to be a swim coach or teacher - just happy and confident being in the water. We’ll give you training and support so you can confidently support our disabled swimmers.

We are a diverse group of swimmers and volunteers. We actively seek people with varied backgrounds and experiences. A diverse club is a richer one, and we have worked hard to create a safe, encouraging environment. 

We provide a comprehensive induction and ongoing training in working with swimmers with disabilities. By taking part you’ll be joining a friendly group of confident swimmers who commit time each week to support our community in the water. 

Join us to:

• Change the lives disabled people who struggle to get into the water
• Meet new people, make friendships and learn from the experiences of others
• Feel fulfilled by spending your time having a positive impact on someone else's day

Our application process ensures that the opportunity is right for you and for our swimmers.

We have a 4 step recruitment process that will give you the opportunity to learn more about what would be expected of you, the type of people you will be working with, and to see one of our sessions in action.

1. Fill out an application form: this covers the usual details, and a few short questions on your experience and why you are interested in the role.
   
2. Phone call: we’ll have a short 15 min phone call to get a better understanding of you and your motivations. You can also ask us any questions about the role.
   
3. Online training: we run 75 min induction training once a month, and we'll get you onto the next one. This will give you all the guidance you need to work with our swimmers in and out of the pool. You’ll also be able to ask any questions and meet with other volunteers.
   
4. DBS & reference check: as our volunteering roles require close interaction with disabled swimmers, we will ask you to complete an Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) Check, which will need to be processed before you can start volunteering. We regret that we cannot work with any volunteer who does not pass the Enhanced DBS Check. We will also ask you to provide some additional details, including relevant consents and two character references.

To get started you’ll attend a pool session where you’ll be paired with another volunteer and spend time meeting the swimmers and getting a sense of how a session runs. Our club committee volunteers are always on hand to help with any questions or concerns and give advice and ideas. 

After that we ask volunteers to sign up to sessions that work for them. We ideally like you to come to the pool a couple of times a month, this means that we have enough people to support our swimmers and also helps to build the community. You’ll be given options to attend regular volunteer training sessions and other social events.