Viveen Taylor
Director of Equality Diversity Inclusion, Sport England
New research shows 70% of women in England want more outdoor physical activity but face barriers. For 1 in 5 Black women, lack of access to green or blue spaces is the biggest barrier.
Community groups focused on inclusion — like Swim Sista Swim in Nottingham — help break these barriers down. Carol Burrell, Community Wellbeing Coordinator for Canal and River Trust, set up Swim Sista Swim as a safe and inclusive space for Black women to learn the lifesaving skill of swimming without fear of judgment.
Empowering Black women facing barriers
The majority of Black women (94%) in Nottingham want to be more active outdoors but cite barriers such as no access to green spaces and a lack of time. Swim Sista Swim aims to provide opportunities and dispel the myths and deep-rooted fears associated with swimming, to empower Black women to feel confident taking part in water-based activities.
“Myths include the belief that Black people’s bones are too heavy, along with concerns around hair care and a general fear of water,” explains Burrell. “As a Black woman myself, I understand and have the same fears. I’m not a swimmer and I’m afraid of deep water,” Burrell admits. “But I wanted to do something about it, so I decided to give swimming a go.”
Myths include the belief that Black people’s
bones are too heavy, along with concerns
around hair care and a general fear of water.
Workshops and support for Black women
Swim Sista Swim was launched in April 2023 with funding from Sport England. It’s part of the Let’s Get Out There initiative from the This Girl Cancampaign to empower more women to enjoy the benefits of outdoor activity.
To tackle the barriers that prevent Black women from enjoying water-based activities, Swim Sista Swim holds information workshops in addition to their classes. These involve experts such as psychotherapists and hair stylists who share valuable information, which encourages Black women to feel comfortable in the water and allows a safe space to ask questions and address their concerns.
“Being together as a group of Black women is a powerful thing,” Burrell notes. “It provides a sense of community and support that is crucial for overcoming fears.”
Burrell’s passion for Swim Sista Swim stems from a deep connection to her community. “This is my community,” she says. “I want to see Black women overcoming their fears and enjoying the water. The benefits of swimming and being involved in water-based activities are immense, and I believe every woman should have the opportunity to experience them.”
