“National first” as Swim England partners with Plymouth Active

In what has been described as a “national first”, Swim England and Plymouth Active have formed a strategic partnership that aims to help people lead healthier, more active lives through swimming and aquatic activity.

The two organisations have signed a memorandum of understanding with a goal of making Plymouth the most active coastal city by 2034. The MoU will see the two organisations work together to champion inclusion, support wellbeing and create “inspiring opportunities for people of all ages to enjoy, learn and thrive in the water”. Through a new joint steering group, the partners will share their expertise, insight and resources to drive meaningful, long-term community impact.

In a joint statement, the organisations said: “The partnership lays the foundation for a long-term, collaborative approach to growing aquatic participation, supporting local ambition and championing Plymouth as a leading destination for aquatic sport, recreation and wellbeing.”

Central to the partnership is harnessing aquatics as a way to improve physical and mental health, build community and connect people to Plymouth’s unique coastal environment. The collaboration will focus on developing welcoming, inclusive programmes; strengthening links with schools, clubs, and local partners; expanding grassroots and performance pathways; and celebrating Plymouth’s role as Britain’s Ocean City. Swim England CEO, Andy Salmon, said it is the first partnership of its kind.