Deaf swimming lessons at Wallasey club

Jul 1 2009 by Carrie Catterall, Birkenhead News

Wallasey’s dolphin swim and sign club teaches children with hearing difficulties to swim

DOLPHIN Swim and Sign Club is making a real difference to children with hearing difficulties.

The club, which was started a year ago by Susan Walker,  has attracted youngsters from all over Merseyside.

It is the only one of its kind in the area and without it, many deaf children would not be able to learn how to swim.

But thanks to this club around 20 children aged  two to 10 years old  now train every Saturday from 3.15-4.15pm at Guinea Gap Baths, Seacombe.

Susan, a teaching assistant and swimming instructor from West Kirby, started the club after a meeting with The Deaf Children’s Society where she discovered there was a lack of sports facilities for deaf children.

She said: “Since started Dolphin Swim and Sign, I’ve been told by many parents that their child has not been able to learn how to swim in normal swimming lessons.

“If the child can’t hear the instructor then it can be dangerous and extremely difficult for everyone involved.

“What is great about our club is we have the whole pool to ourselves. 

“We also have two swimming instructors, with one in the water, as well as a lady who signs at the side of the pool.

“I think this club is really valuable to Wirral.

“The feedback I have received has been fantastic and we’ve taught many children with hearing difficulties to swim over the past 12 months.

“I’m still however inundated with emails asking me to start more clubs across the borough, which just shows the need for this service.”

If you want to sponsor or get involved with the club email dolphinswimandsignclub@hotmail.com or call 07737013718.