For Silvia Escamilla and her family, a simple suggestion from a teacher at her son’s school turned into something life‑changing.
“A few years ago, one of the teachers at our son Aidan’s school, told us about Barry Beavers Disabled Swimming Club and invited us to come along. We never imagined at the time, how important this Club would become in our lives,” she said.
From the very first session, Silvia says her son Aidan found something rare — a place where he felt safe, calm and happy in the water.
“During the very first session, Aidan felt safe, calm and happy in the water. Little by little, he started building confidence in himself and developing wonderful swimming skills. As parents, it has been incredibly emotional and rewarding to watch him grow, overcome challenges and genuinely enjoy every session. Swimming has helped him not only physically, but emotionally too, giving him more confidence, independence and happiness.”
But for the Escamilla family, Barry Beavers has become far more than a weekly activity.
“Barry Beavers is so much more than just a swimming club, for our family, it has become a place of support, friendship and understanding. The volunteers are truly amazing people - patient, kind and completely dedicated to the children and young people they support. They welcome every family with warmth, making everyone feel included and valued. The care and commitment they show, means more than words can really express.”
Aidan has made new friends, found confidence in group settings and discovered a space where he can simply be himself.
“Aidan has also made some lovely friendships there, seeing him laugh, interact and feel part of a group has meant the world to us. You are, as parents, always searching for places where your child can simply be themselves and feel accepted, and Barry Beavers gave us exactly that.”
For Silvia and her husband Richard, the club has offered something unexpected — a sense of community and reassurance.
“The Club has, for Richard and myself, also been a kind of therapy in its’ own way. It has brought us comfort, reassurance and a wonderful community of families and friends, who truly understand the journey. We have met such lovely people there and we are genuinely grateful for every conversation, every smile and every shared moment.”
Their hope now is that more families discover what Barry Beavers has given them.
“We only wish more families could discover this wonderful Club and experience the positive impact it can have. We will always be thankful for everything Barry Beavers has brought into Aidan’s life and into ours.”
Barry Beavers Disabled Swimming Club is run solely by volunteers — from instructors and reception staff to fundraisers, administrators and safeguarding leads. Every session, every smile and every moment in the pool is made possible by people giving their time to support disabled children and adults.
As demand grows, the club is appealing for more volunteers to join the team. Roles range from poolside support to behind‑the‑scenes help and event fundraising.
Anyone interested in volunteering or learning more about the club can get in touch via www.barrybeavers.org
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