Public pool closures 'leave young people with higher risk of drowning'

Public pool closures 'leave young people with higher risk of drowning'

Around 500 swimming pools in the UK have been closed since 2010, with 250 shutting in the last five years alone. The cost of these closures on the community is being highlighted by the GMB union as studies have found young people are becoming less confident in the water.

A new report revealed 30% of children in Year 7 cannot swim 25 metres confidently. This is a rising trend, with 27% reporting this lack of confidence in 2017/2018.

This could put them at a higher risk of drowning, while also removing the mental and physical health benefits of this iconic childhood activity. A coalition made up of the Local Government Association, Chief Cultural and Leisure Officers Association, Community Leisure UK, Society of Local