School children from across Tower Hamlets came together at Poplar Baths on Wednesday 16 September for a dedicated water safety and drowning prevention assembly. 

Pupils learnt about the hidden dangers of open water, including cold-water shock, strong currents and submerged hazards. They also gained practical advice on how to keep themselves and others safe, while learning why swimming is such an important life skill. 

The event brought together experts Adam Goymer from Swim England, Rachel Beckford and Nicky Prince from the Marine Police and Tim Cutbill from the London Fire Brigade, who shared life-saving advice and highlighted the risks associated with swimming at beaches, rivers, canals, lakes and swimming pools. 

Led by Jackie Ayres, Aquatics Manager for Tower Hamlets, the assembly took place at a time when water safety continues to receive increased national attention. Recent incidents involving children and young people across the country, alongside warmer weather and greater use of open water spaces, have reinforced the need for greater awareness and education to know what to do in an emergency. 

The event formed part of Be Well’s wider commitment to improving water confidence across the borough. Through partnerships with schools and national organisations, Be Well continues to encourage more children to learn to swim, develop essential water safety skills and enjoy water safely throughout their lives. 

Lutfur Rahman, Executive Mayor of Tower Hamlets, said:    

“Having recently met with a family affected by a tragic water-related incident, I have seen first-hand the profound impact these events can have on loved ones and our wider community.  

“That is why I have consistently championed water safety as a priority for Tower Hamlets. As a borough surrounded by rivers, docks, canals and basins, it is vital that our residents and young people understand how to stay safe around water and know what to do in an emergency.  

“Learning to swim, developing water confidence and understanding the risks associated with water are essential life skills that can help save lives. By ensuring more children have access to these skills and knowledge, we can help prevent future tragedies and keep our residents safe.” 

Cllr Minara Khatun, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Culture and Tourism, said: 

“This assembly is about giving children the knowledge and confidence and encouragement they need to stay safe in and around water. By bringing together experts from across water safety, emergency services and swimming education, we can help young people better understand the risks and know how to respond if they ever find themselves in danger. 

“Open water can be unpredictable, with hidden hazards such as cold-water shock, strong currents and submerged objects posing serious risks, even to confident swimmers. That is why education and awareness are so important. 

“Through Be Well, we are committed to helping more children learn to swim, build water confidence and develop essential water safety skills. By working closely with schools and our partners, we can ensure young people have the opportunities and support they need to enjoy water safely throughout their lives.”