Ironmonger Row Baths Hosts Inspiring WeSwim Gala

Ironmonger Row Baths was proud to host the 3rd Annual WeSwim Gala, welcoming over 60 disabled swimmers alongside more than 50 volunteers and supporters for an inspiring day of competitive swimming, community spirit and celebration of inclusion.

Organised by WeSwim, a London-based charity dedicated to making swimming accessible to disabled people, the event brought together swimmers of all abilities to compete, connect and celebrate achievement in a supportive and welcoming environment.

The gala highlighted WeSwim’s mission to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, can experience the physical and mental wellbeing benefits of being in the water. The event featured swimmers returning to the pool following life-changing accidents, alongside others who have recently learned to swim and were competing for the very first time.

The day was made even more special with a visit from the Lord Mayor of Westminster, Councillor Robert Dimoldenburg, who presented medals to competitors and recognised the outstanding efforts of everyone involved.

The event also showcased the incredible power of community support, with over 50 WeSwim volunteers helping to coordinate the day, support swimmers and create an encouraging atmosphere for all in attendance.

Feedback from Poolside

Accessibility and inclusivity remain a key priority at Ironmonger Row Baths, and we were delighted to hear the positive feedback shared by one of the competitors, Niveda, following the event:

“Going into it, I was a nervous wreck. It was a new pool and a completely different leisure centre, and I was panicking about accessibility. But for the first time ever, it felt like a sports day made for me.

It felt like a space where accessibility was already part of the competition - not an afterthought. I didn’t have to fight to be included or explain myself constantly. Everything was organised, supported and genuinely welcoming.

And somehow, in the middle of all that nervousness, I came away with a second-place medal. Most of all, I think about how free it felt to simply enjoy the experience without constantly worrying.”

We are proud to have played a part in hosting such an important event and would like to thank the WeSwim team, volunteers and all participants for making the day such a success.

To find out more about WeSwim, support their work or volunteer, visit weswim.club.