A PROJECT to build a national network of swimming pools which are safe for people living with dementia has been launched in the North-East.

County Durham has been chosen alongside Manchester as one of two pilot areas for the Amateur Swimming Association’s Dementia Friendly Swimming Project.

It was launched today (February 4) at Chester-le-Street Leisure Centre and aims to create a network of pools which are safe and welcoming for people living with dementia and their carers.

Lara Lill, the ASA’s head of health and wellbeing, said that research showed swimming could help reduce anxiety and improve the mood of people in all stages of dementia.

She added: “But for some people living with dementia, or those that care for them, the idea of going to a swimming pool can seem quite daunting.

“We want to change this perception by working closely with our partners to create a safe and welcoming environment and to remove any barriers that may currently be stopping those living with dementia from enjoying the benefits of swimming.”

The project will seek to improve training for pool operators and staff to ensure the needs of those living with dementia and their carers are fully understood and create the right environment to deliver exercise and swimming sessions.

Cllr Simon Henig, leader of Durham County Council, said: “It’s wonderful that one of County Durham’s pools has been chosen as a flagship for the national launch."

More than 6,800 people in County Durham are estimated to live with dementia and Samuel Palombella, Alzheimer’s Society operations manager for County Durham and Tees Valley, welcomed the launch.

He said: “A dementia diagnosis should not signal the end of anyone’s favourite pastimes and that’s why we so warmly welcome the arrival of dementia-friendly swimming in the North-East because what is good for the heart is also good for the head.”