Tonbridge Sea Turtles has been borne from the real and personal experiences, of there being a lack of competitive swimming provisions for the Disabled community in and around West Kent. We want to build the bridge between aspiring athletes and finding a Club in their area which gives access to inclusive swimming development, to everyone who has been disadvantaged by where they live and by their finances. We are a registered Charity, so that we can subsidise our athletes’ membership fees, travel to and accommodation at galas, club kit, social events and more; which means we are accessible to everyone.

What we'll deliver:

• Subsidised membership and coaching fees to our athletes.
• Subsidised Club kit for being part of the team and social inclusion.
• Top quality coaching and development for all our athletes.

Why it's a great idea:

In terms of health benefits, Swimming is a total body exercise, utilising all the large muscles in the body, making it incredibly effective yet a non-impact, non-weight bearing exercise, so it is extremely accessible to every person. At Tonbridge Sea Turtles Disability Swimming Club, adaptations are made to session and teaching content to accommodate physical and learning disabilities, to ensure that the provision is accessible to all. Physical exercise encourages blood flow and oxygenation, which promotes healing, reduces inflammation and builds muscle, thereby improving core strength and stability, as well as the immune system. Additionally, it increases endorphins and therefore, promotes both physical and mental well-being. TSTDSC aims to ensure that physical and mental well-being are achievable for all of the disability community and most of all, that they have somewhere they are celebrated, included and part of the family. Every person deserves to have an opportunity to take part

Steps to get it done:

• Purchasing 12 months of pool facility rental, in advance.
• Securing coaching costs for a 12 month period.
• Purchasing the team Club kit and providing it at subsidised costs.

Our aim is to not only provide the skills element of training, but to inherently promote healthy living; including eating, exercise, mental well-being and positive socialisation. The Club will be not limited to just the training session; our responsibility does not end when the session ends. We will share and promote guidelines and plans to encourage healthy eating; how to maintain fitness on non-training days, suggest activities which promote mental acuity and improve mental health, on a regular basis between sessions, which will help prevent sickness. Our Founder and Treasurer has an Advanced Diploma in Fitness and Exercise and will use this to help benefit the members.