Provider Reflections - Shropshire Community Leisure Trust

Connor has improved in his swimming ability since beginning Bubbles. Connor has multiple and complex needs, including Downs Syndrome, deafness and dumping syndrome (rapid blood sugar drop) and is fed through a naso-Gastric tube. Progressing in any skill such as swimming gives Connor an increase in confidence. Progress was limited at first due to medical issues - Connor only breathes through his mouth - but we have developed techniques to overcome these issues while he is swimming. Due to his complex needs, school had been reluctant to allow Connor to participate in school swimming, but with work by Mum too, his skills have developed to a point where I hope school will now see the positive effects. Connor attends with other children, one of whom is at his school. Getting to know each in a smaller space has helped both children overcome their rivalry in school, which benefits everyone. Mum reports Connor looks forward to each lesson. He can communicate through signing and non-verbal cues which has upskilled staff. Lessons also give Parents time for some respite and the ability to meet other Parents in similar circumstances. Swimming is a transferable skill – overcoming apprehension, improving skills, gaining confidence, promoting health and fitness and supporting socialisation.