Projects must support children under the age of 18 years to have access to water in the form of swimming lessons, transport to lessons, swimwear and water play equipment. Eligible projects include, but are not limited to:
- Free swimming lessons and swim nappies for children who need them.
- Online learning programmes that teach valuable life skills for parents and children.
- Water splash areas to encourage play as well as water confidence and safety.
Priority will be given to grassroots initiatives delivering water-based projects for disadvantaged children.
There are typically two application rounds per year, in March and September.
Examples of previously supported projects include:
- Swimwear for five inner city schools in Birmingham for Muslim children.
- Ongoing hydrotherapy sessions for severely disabled children.
- Surf therapy to support 50 children in North Yorkshire with their mental health.
- Over 400 swimming sessions for disabled children.
- Swimming lessons for children with AS or ADHD, aged between seven to eleven.
- Water-based messy play session for babies and toddlers.
Applications are now open and the deadline for submission is 30 March 2026.
This fund typically opens for applications twice per year in March and September.
An application form is available to download from the Children’s Alliance website and once completed should be submitted by email.
Contact the Children’s Alliance for further information