West Dunbartonshire Leisure Trust Named Scottish Water Learn to Swim Provider of the Year
Published 07 October 2026
West Dunbartonshire Leisure Trust (WDLT) has been recognised for its outstanding commitment to swimming and water safety after being named Scottish Water Learn to Swim Provider of the Year.
The prestigious award from Scottish Swimming, celebrates the Trust's significant growth, innovation and positive impact on communities across West Dunbartonshire, where more than 3,100 people now take part in swimming lessons each week.
Since 2022, WDLT has increased delivery from 293 to 513 swimming lessons every week, representing a 75 per cent increase in capacity and ensuring more residents have access to vital swimming and water safety skills.
The award also highlights the Trust's commitment to creating opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to learn to swim, build confidence in the water and enjoy the lifelong benefits of aquatic activity.
A key feature of the swim programme is its strong focus on inclusion. Through the pioneering See My Ability project, children with complex needs are supported to develop water confidence, independence and swimming skills in a welcoming and supportive environment, while remaining connected to the wider Learn to Swim pathway.
WDLT has also played a leading role in promoting water safety across the local community. In partnership with West Dunbartonshire Council, every primary school pupil in West Dunbartonshire has the opportunity to take part in swimming and water safety education through the School Swimming Programme during Primary 6 or 7, helping ensure young people develop essential lifesaving skills.
This work is further strengthened through the Trust's annual Open Water Safety Event at Loch Lomond, where pupils gain practical experience and knowledge to stay safe in and around open water.
Councillor Michelle McGinty, Member of WDLT Board of Directors, said: "This is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved with West Dunbartonshire Leisure Trust's Learn to Swim programme. The success of our Learn to Swim programme is rooted in the dedication of our local Swim Teachers and Swim Officers. The dedication and hard work of staff and partners has helped thousands of people across West Dunbartonshire gain vital swimming and water safety skills. The Trust's commitment to inclusion, accessibility and education is making a real difference in our communities and helping people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the many benefits of being active in and around water. Congratulations to everyone involved on this well-deserved recognition."
Councillor Sophie Traynor, Member of WDLT Board of Directors, said: "The Board is incredibly proud to receive this award and it recognises the commitment of our teachers, staff, partners and participants who have helped make the programme such a success. Their passion for helping people of all ages and abilities thrive in the water has created a culture that puts community, inclusion and development at its heart. Swimming is a life-skill and our aim is to ensure everyone has the opportunity to learn, develop confidence and stay safe in and around water. This recognition and award belongs to the team who deliver that experience every day, and to the learn to swim families that attend all our programmes."
Through investment in local people, strong partnerships and an unwavering focus on water safety, WDLT has developed a community-driven approach that not only teaches people to swim but also helps ensure residents have the skills and confidence to stay safe around water throughout their lives.
