easyJet wants to tackle the UK’s swim gap

By Jamie Hesketh on Friday, July 4, 2025

easyJet Holidays has launched a national Swim School programme to tackle the UK’s swimming crisis after research revealed 9 million British adults (one in six) cannot swim.

Through a partnership with Olympic champion Tom Dean and the Royal Life Saving Society UK, easyJet Holidays is offering six free lessons to 1,000 adults at Better Leisure Centres, starting Monday 30 June.

Tom Dean’s top water-safety tips: 1. Pause before you dive in. 2. Swim with a buddy. 3. Stay where your feet touch bottom. 4. Float if in doubt.

Public-pool closures have left the average Brit 4.3 miles from the nearest facility, with over 100 pools shutting in the past two decades. A lack of accessible pools and lessons means 42% stick to the shallow end and 33% feel vulnerable in the water, leaving 23% of non-swimmers feel embarrassed about their lack of swim skills.

Matt Callaghan, COO at easyJet Holidays, adds: “We’re committed to helping more people gain this vital life skill and fully enjoy their beach holidays. Our Swim School not only boosts confidence in the water but also creates memories that last a lifetime.”