The mystery of why so many black Britons still can't swim
A BBC report explores the statistical disparity in swimming proficiency among black Britons, noting that a significant percentage of the black community cannot swim 25 meters unaided. The author shares her personal experience with learning to swim to highlight the importance of water safety.
Why it matters
Addressing the swimming gap is critical for public health and reducing the over-representation of minority groups in drowning statistics.
The mystery of why so many black Britons still can't swim
By Florence Freeman BBC News As I push through the doors, the smell of chlorine hits me. Instantly, I feel sick, and I remember why I don't go swimming. I'm getting ready for my first swimming lesson in over 10 years, trying to convince myself it won't be so bad.
I glance around the pool; I'm surrounded by other black women learning to swim, all at different levels. Some are confidently swimming lengths; others, like me, are learning how to feel at home in the water.
I'm learning to breathe properly, dunk my head under and let the water carry me, rather than fight against it. There are so many things to remember.
At the age of 27, I'm still unable to swim - and I'm far from alone.
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