Wheelchair users and people with mobility needs now have easier access to the water at London Aquatics Centre, which has become the only venue in the world to have three PoolPod 3.0s under one roof, with a dedicated system permanently stationed at each of its three pools.
The PoolPod 3.0 is the latest version of a specialist pool access system that uses a powered seat to lower people into and lift them out of the water. Its fully automated design means disabled swimmers can operate it themselves, without relying on staff assistance.
Previously, the centre had one PoolPod, which had to be moved between its three pools when needed. Now each pool has its own, giving customers immediate access whichever pool they use. Between 20 and 30 customers use the PoolPods each day.
Among those benefiting is 12-year-old Amelia Bull, who has a rare brain condition called cerebellar hypoplasia, is non-verbal and is a full-time wheelchair user.
Amelia attends London Aquatics Centre’s dedicated SEND swimming sessions with her siblings. Her family had been looking for an accessible swimming option for years before finding the centre. Although Amelia has always loved being in the water, finding somewhere that could safely support her getting in and out of the pool had been difficult.
Before using the PoolPod, getting Amelia into the water was a significant challenge for her family. As she has grown older and heavier, helping her into the pool became increasingly difficult, while the transition from sitting on the poolside to being immersed in the water could also be distressing for her.
The PoolPod has changed that experience, allowing Amelia to enter the water slowly and safely, at a pace that suits her.
Charles Foster, Amelia’s swimming teacher at London Aquatics Centre, said: “The PoolPod has made a real difference to Amelia’s experience of getting into the water. She can take her time and enter the pool gradually, which helps her feel comfortable and ready to take part in the session.
“Once she is in the water, it is lovely to see how much she enjoys swimming alongside her siblings. Being able to take part together helps Amelia feel included and gives her the opportunity to enjoy swimming in the same way as the rest of her family.”
The SEND swimming sessions have enabled Amelia to swim alongside her three siblings, something the family had previously found difficult to arrange.
Her mother said: “Since attending the SEND swimming sessions at London Aquatics Centre, we’ve finally been able to swim together as a family. That has been incredibly special for us. It means all four of my children can enjoy the water together, make memories together and take part in an activity where everyone is included.”
The new arrangement has also made planning visits easier for the family, with a PoolPod now permanently available at whichever pool they are using.
She said: “The new PoolPods being stationed on every pool has made such a huge difference. Knowing that accessible pool access is available makes planning a swimming trip much easier and gives families like ours confidence that our children are included.
“It means Amelia can enjoy swimming regularly rather than it being something that feels difficult to arrange.”
Chris Wells, Everyone Active Contract Manager for London Aquatics Centre, said: “Having a PoolPod available at each of our three pools is a significant step forward for accessibility at London Aquatics Centre.
“By investing in dedicated equipment at each pool, we can make access to the water simpler, while helping to future-proof the venue and ensure its Olympic and Paralympic legacy continues to benefit as many people as possible.”
Mark Camley, Executive Director of Estate and Neighbourhoods at London Legacy Development Corporation, said: ”Embedding accessibility and inclusivity in the design and ethos of the Park is at the heart of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. We want the Park – and its venues – to be a place where everyone can enjoy sport and physical activity and lead healthy and active lives.
“The installation of a PoolPod 3.0 at each pool in the London Aquatics Centre is an important addition to its offer, ensuring the venue continues to set a high standard for inclusive sport and leisure.”
London Aquatics Centre, located at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, is managed by Everyone Active on behalf of London Legacy Development Corporation and offers a range of accessible facilities and inclusive swimming opportunities, including dedicated SEND swimming sessions.
