A major milestone in water safety

 

We are thrilled to announce the completion of the Mid-Strategy Review of Wales’ Drowning Prevention Strategy, marking a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance water safety across Wales. This comprehensive review is the first of four key projects RoSPA is undertaking in collaboration with Water Safety Wales (WSW), thanks to the support of the Welsh Government.

About Water Safety Wales

Water Safety Wales is a coalition of organisations dedicated to reducing water-related fatalities in Wales. The group works to promote water safety awareness, education, and best practices across the country.

RoSPA's enhanced role

In 2022, the Welsh Parliament's Senedd Petitions Committee published a series of recommendations known as "Mark Allan's Law," following the tragic death of 18-year-old Mark Allan, who lost his life after jumping into a reservoir in 2019.

In 2024, after years of negotiation and in response to these recommendations, the Welsh Government awarded RoSPA the opportunity to enhance our drowning prevention efforts in Wales. This award enables us to provide full-time support to Water Safety Wales, transforming it from a volunteer-run organisation into one with dedicated full-time resources.

Four key areas of support

As part of this new role, RoSPA is supporting Water Safety Wales in four critical areas, each designed to enhance the organisation's effectiveness and reach.

1. Secretariat function

RoSPA is now handling the administrative tasks for Water Safety Wales, including organising meetings, taking minutes, and ensuring smooth communication among members.
 

2. Communications

Effective communication is vital for raising awareness about water safety. RoSPA is assisting WSW with social media posts, press releases, and other communication efforts to ensure that their message reaches a wider audience.
 

3. Leadership and strategic management

RoSPA is offering support and strategic management to the WSW steering group. Leveraging our extensive experience with the National Water Safety Forum, Water Safety Scotland, and our broader expertise in safety advocacy and policy development, we are guiding WSW’s efforts to ensure their initiatives align with best practices and achieve lasting impact.
 

4. Projects

• Signage project: Through a research project we are developing guidance for landowners on water safety signs in Wales. This project aims to provide consistency and clarity, making it easier for the public to understand and follow safety instructions.

• Local authority engagement: RoSPA is engaging with all local authorities in Wales to support them in implementing comprehensive water safety policies and establishing water safety partnerships. This initiative is crucial for creating a coordinated approach to water safety across the country.

• Education resources: We are creating lesson plans and materials for teachers to deliver water safety education as part of the Curriculum for Wales. These resources will help instil essential water safety knowledge in young people, preparing them to stay safe around water.

• Reviewing the Wales Drowning Prevention Strategy: We are proud to announce that the first of our four key projects has been completed. The Mid-Strategy Review of Wales’ Drowning Prevention Strategy is now finished, providing a solid foundation for future efforts to reduce drowning incidents in Wales.

Moving forward

The award from the Welsh Government marks a significant milestone in our partnership with Water Safety Wales. With RoSPA’s full-time support, WSW is better equipped than ever to tackle the challenges of water safety and make a real difference in the lives of people across Wales. We are excited about the progress we’ve made and look forward to continuing our work together to prevent drowning and promote water safety.

How members can get involved

RoSPA’s Safer Lives, Stronger Nation report highlighted that 236 individuals in the UK lost their lives to accidental drowning in 2023. Whilst anybody can drown, nobody should, and we encourage all RoSPA members to support drowning prevention measures both at home and in the workplace. It is the responsibility of everyone to help reduce drowning incidents and encourage colleagues, friends, and family members to be safe when around open water. By promoting water safety awareness and implementing best practices, we can collectively make a significant impact.

Impact on members

This review demonstrates the Welsh Government's commitment to improving health and safety and reducing accidents. By supporting these initiatives, RoSPA members are contributing to a safer environment for all.

This article was written by Peter Gallagher, Water Safety Development Manager (Wales), RoSPA.