Following the devastating impact felt across communities after the drownings of two young people, Sunnah Khan and Joe Abbess, in Bournemouth in 2023, the Dorset Schools Swimming Association (DSSA) have donated £4,500 to the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK).

The monetary contribution comes after the DSSA was forced to cease operating due to difficulties following the COVID-19 pandemic; the group wanted to ensure funds were put to good use in their local area.

The DSSA stated that the inspiration behind the donation stemmed from their own belief that all children deserve access to learn to swim and be water confident.

The generous donation will focus on improving water safety education in the Dorset area, providing free resources in primary and secondary schools, to enhance young people's understandings of the Water Safety Code.

Schools that participate gain access to fun and interactive resources that allow school children, irrespective of their background, to learn how to keep themselves and their peers safe around the water and enrich their opportunities to engage in water-related activities.

Last month, the Dorset organisation presented the donation to Jill Bailey, one of RLSS UK’s Ambassadors for the South Region, during a swimming gala held at the Poole Dolphin Leisure Centre.

Gina Wilcox, DSSA’s Secretary, said: “Since the pandemic, the Dorset Schools Swimming Association has recognised that the needs of primary schools have changed.

“This donation will encourage water confidence and water safety through the RLSS UK water safety education programme and will open the doors for the many water-based activities in the area.”

Matt Croxall, Interim Charity Director, added: “As a charity, we believe that no child should die from drowning. Funding from likeminded groups, like the DSSA, allows us as an organisation to remain at the forefront of improving young people’s understanding of the dangers of water and how to enjoy water safely.

“Thank you for this kind donation, we will ensure that it goes towards making a big difference in the community.”