2 minute read
Charity and community
As a community surrounded by water with countless sandy beaches, hidden coves and sheltered bays to explore, knowing how to enjoy the water safely is incredibly important - especially for the Isle of Wight’s younger residents
One organisation making sure people know just that is the Waterside Community Trust with its Rookie Lifeguard Course, designed to educate children on how to respect the water and inspire the next generation of lifeguards. The Ryde-based charity delivers the course throughout the summer in small groups using equipment funded by WightAID. Making use of the town’s vast sandy beach and nearby Waterside Pool, children take part in fun activities designed to equip them with valuable survival, rescue and sports skills along with a healthy respect for the water. Todd Miller, who leads the course, says, “Living on an Island with such easy access to the sea means it’s really important for children to learn about and respect the water so they can keep themselves and others safe while making the most of our fantastic beaches.
“Although lifesaving is a serious business, the course is designed to be enjoyable with plenty of fun in the water, games and activities to help kids gain confidence and make new friends while learning valuable new skills.”
The scheme has three levels with children progressing from beginner bronze level to gold level where they learn to master impressive lifesaving skills.
As part of their training, children also get to meet the team at Ryde Beach Lifeguards, visit their centre and learn from real life heroes what it takes to be a lifesaver.
“As a coastal community, courses like this are vital to inspire the next generation of lifesavers,” Todd continues.
“We wouldn’t be able to deliver the course without the help of organisations like WightAID and the support of our friends at Ryde Inshore Rescue who freely give their time to inspire and educate our rookies.” Geoff Underwood, WightAID Trustee, said: “Each and every business that has supported WightAID should feel proud of the part they have played in supporting this incredibly important course which is inspiring and educating children to help keep
themselves, their friends and their family safe in the water. “We are committed to helping charities like the Waterside Community Trust, which play such an important role in Island life. “Since WightAid started with our business partners we have been able to award funding to a number of charities and community projects supporting young people to learn to swim, row, dive or sail and to enjoy the water safely. These include UKSA, Cowes Sailability, Wight Dolphins, The Wave Project, Ryde Sea Cadets, Ryde Rowing Club and Sensory Swim.” The Rookie Lifeguard Course was developed by the Royal Life Saving Society UK in partnership with Swim England. Places are available in Ryde with the Waterside Pool.
Waterside Community Trust, 2 West Hill Road, Ryde, PO33 1LG www.watersidepool.co.uk
Supporting your local producers means you get to enjoy the best seasonal produce available and also support your local economy.
