Peaceful Pool sessions return to Whitworth Leisure & Wellbeing Centre for SEND families

Families across the Rossendale Valley and Rochdale borough are being invited to enjoy a quieter, more inclusive swimming experience this summer as Whitworth Leisure & Wellbeing Centre continues its popular Peaceful Pool sessions.

Designed specifically for children and adults with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), along with their families, the sessions provide a calm, judgement-free environment where everyone can relax, connect and enjoy time together at their own pace.

The initiative recognises that many families can find busy public swimming sessions overwhelming due to noise, bright lighting and sensory stimulation. Peaceful Pool aims to remove those barriers by creating an environment where participants feel comfortable, supported and included.

Sessions will take place every Thursday from 11:30am until 1:00pm throughout the six-week summer holidays.

To create a more accessible experience, the pool environment will feature reduced lighting to provide a calmer atmosphere, while sensory toys and floating aids will be available for swimmers to enjoy. Families are encouraged to use the facilities in whatever way feels right for them, whether that means swimming, playing in the water, paddling at the poolside or simply becoming familiar with the environment.

Organisers say the sessions are all about allowing people to be themselves without fear of judgement.

The promotional campaign explains that many families of children with SEND can often feel judged or cautious about how their child's behaviour may be perceived in public spaces. Peaceful Pool has therefore been designed to offer a welcoming environment where everyone can feel safe, respected and accepted.

The centre's message is simple: 'Everyone is welcome here just as you are.' That philosophy reflects a growing recognition across the leisure sector of the importance of making public facilities more inclusive and accessible for people with additional needs.

Swimming is widely recognised for its physical and mental wellbeing benefits, helping to improve confidence, mobility, coordination and overall fitness while providing an enjoyable activity for the whole family. Creating opportunities for families to access those benefits in a supportive environment can make a significant difference for many people who may otherwise struggle to attend mainstream sessions.

The Peaceful Pool sessions are available at the standard swim admission price, ensuring families can take part without paying a premium for accessible provision.

Whitworth Leisure & Wellbeing Centre continues to expand its programme of community-focused activities, with Peaceful Pool forming part of its wider commitment to ensuring local leisure facilities are welcoming and inclusive for residents of all ages and abilities.

Peaceful Pool takes place every Thursday between 11:30am and 1:00pm throughout the six-week summer holidays at Whitworth Leisure & Wellbeing Centre.