South Australia’s largest disability provider Minda, has come to the rescue to deliver the Rapidswim aquatic therapy and learn to swim programs from 2023.
Rapidswim has been run by disability and inclusion support body Active Inclusion (previouslyInclusive Sports SA) for more than 30 years but due to the impact of Covid, is unable to continue the program.
Minda, which already provides pool space for more than half the current Rapidswim offering, agreed to take on and deliver the full program, with Active Inclusion training Minda staff during the final term of 2022. The two organisations will work side-by-side during this period.
Minda chief Executive Dr David Panter said the transition of Rapidswim to Minda highlighted the organisation’s commitment to inclusivity and addresses the importance of community to a person’s health and wellbeing.
“This transition of Rapidswim directly aligns with our values and commitments to enable people living with an intellectual disability live their best life, when and where they like and as independently as possible,” he said.
Active Inclusion will be providing a transition for all participants who will be able to continue their sessions with Minda.
The latest data from the Royal Surf Life Saving Society found that more than 500 children aged up to four years have drowned in the last 20 years.