Swim Free Launches Free Swimming Lessons for Serving Royal Navy Families in Cornwall

Helston programme to support 60 children from 22nd May

A new swimming programme is launching this month in Helston, offering free lessons to children from serving Royal Navy families.

Starting on 22nd May 2025, the scheme will provide free swimming lessons to 60 children aged 4–16 at Better Helston Sports Centre. The lessons are being delivered by Swim Free, in partnership with GLL, the not-for-profit workers’ cooperative that runs the centre on behalf of Cornwall Council.

Funded support for naval families

Swim Free was launched in November 2024, funded by Greenwich Hospital and delivered in partnership with the Andrew Simpson Foundation. The programme aims to reduce barriers to swimming and increase young people’s water confidence, while supporting the Royal Navy community.

So far, lessons have been offered in Poole, Portsmouth, Plymouth and Lympstone. Cornwall now joins the list, with children from serving Royal Navy families set to benefit.

Josh Atherton, Development Project Manager at Swim Free, said:

“We’re delighted to be expanding Swim Free to Cornwall and launching this new partnership with GLL. Providing free swimming lessons to young people from serving naval families is at the heart of our mission to build confidence, life skills, and connection through water. This new centre means even more children will have the chance to learn vital, life-saving skills in a safe and supportive environment.”

Safe and structured lessons for all abilities

Lessons will be delivered by qualified instructors using the Better Swimming Framework, which is closely aligned with the Swim England Learn to Swim Framework. This ensures children are supported in a safe, structured and progressive way that matches their ability.

Amelia Kitchen, Senior General Manager at Better Helston Sports Centre, added:

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with the Andrew Simpson Foundation on this exciting initiative.

Community is at the heart of everything GLL does and, with RNAS Culdrose on our doorstep, it’s a wonderful opportunity to teach children of serving personnel how to stay safe in the water.”

Find out more or book a place

To book lessons or learn more about the programme, visit https://swim-free.org.uk/find-swimming-lessons/.