The £1,000 funding from Tesco Stronger Starts allowed us to purchase high-quality, reliable equipment: two Mares BCD jackets, two pairs of Aqualung fins, four Cressi Perla masks with Gamma snorkels, one Cressi Tino and Scilla mask and snorkel combo for wider faces, two SEAC snorkels, and an AED training device. Good equipment is essential for safe and effective training, helping young people feel secure, comfortable, and supported in the water. Our decision to include an AED training device was shaped by conversations with local youth groups, who wanted first aid awareness and water safety to be part of the experience. This fits naturally alongside scuba training, where safety, responsibility, and looking after one another are central values.
For several participants, putting on scuba gear for the first time was daunting. Some arrived visibly nervous and unsure of themselves. With calm guidance and encouragement, those fears quickly turned into smiles, excitement, and pride. One of the highlights of the project was seeing an Explorer with additional needs take part alongside his parent carer and the rest of his Explorers group. Being able to participate fully, with the right support in place, was hugely meaningful for him, and he found the experience exhilarating.
Young people who began the session anxious and hesitant finished it confident, laughing, and asking when they could dive again. Learning to scuba in the pool helps young people overcome fear, build confidence, and realise they are capable of far more than they expect. It teaches calm breathing, focus, and trust—skills that stay with them beyond the water. Seeing fear transform into confidence and passion has been one of the most powerful and positive outcomes of this project.
