In a transformative initiative, 38 adults from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities have successfully completed a fully subsidised Royal Life Saving NSW (RLSNSW) program, equipping them with essential swimming and water safety skills just in time for the festive season.
The program, generously supported by a grant from the Seven Hills RSL, spanned 10 weeks and addressed the specific needs of participants who, in many cases, lacked confidence in aquatic environments. Designed to enhance swimming ability and instill crucial water safety and resuscitation skills, the program is set to run until April 2024.
Ying Fan, RLS NSW Community Engagement Manager, emphasized the life-changing impact of the program, enabling participants to confidently engage in water-related activities, particularly with their families.
She highlighted the alarming statistic from the National Drowning Report, revealing that 35% of people born overseas identify as non or poor swimmers. The program aims to address this gap, promoting drowning prevention through education and skill-building.
Fan explained, “Trips and falls into water are a major risk factor in drowning, so even if you don’t intend to swim, learning the skills is one of the most important things you can do to help keep your kids and family safe.” The program aligns with Royal Life Saving’s goal of reducing drowning incidents and eliminating the fear of water, emphasizing the importance of adult swimming and safety programs.
Significantly, the success of education programs for children and parents has led to a decrease in the rate of drowning in children aged 1-4 years in NSW. However, the need for accessible adult programs remains, and initiatives like the Seven Hills program seek to bridge this gap.
After completing the 10-week program, participants gained basic swimming skills, including floating on their back, essential survival techniques in and around water. The subsidized Seven Hills program is set to continue its impact until April 2024.
For more information on this and other Multicultural programs, visit www.drowningprevention.org.au/multiculturalprograms.
Additionally, Royal Life Saving encourages the community to download and share translated safety tips available at the #AreYouSummerReady campaign page, providing essential information in seven priority languages.
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38 adults from CALD communities completed a fully subsidised 10-week #swimming program by RLS NSW, addressing water safety needs. Funded by Seven Hills RSL, the initiative aims to reduce #drowning incidents. 🏊♂️🌐🤝💙🚑 #TheIndianSunhttps://t.co/Atj2NS6UcO
— The Indian Sun (@The_Indian_Sun) December 19, 2023
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