Doncaster Leisure Trust launches summer water safety campaign

Doncaster Culture and Leisure Trust (DCLT) is encouraging families across the borough to stay safe around water this summer with the launch of its annual Stay Safe. Swim Smart. campaign.

As part of the campaign DCLT is inviting residents to learn lifesaving CPR skills at The Dome during Drowning Prevention Week (13–20 June).

The first of two sessions will take place on Saturday 13 June, where visitors can watch CPR demonstrations in the reception area, ask questions and have a go themselves. A second session will follow in July.

The campaign, supported by the City of Doncaster Council, comes at a time when water safety is firmly in the spotlight, with a concerning rise of water related deaths during the UK’s recent heatwave, the latest tragedy occurring in Doncaster. Across the UK, more than 215 people lose their lives in accidental water-related incidents each year, many of which occur in the summer.

With rivers, lakes, canals, and wetlands forming a key part of Doncaster’s landscape, around 35,750 households, a quarter of homes in the borough, have easy access to open water, highlighting the importance of awareness and education.

Craig Bradford, aquatics manager at DCLT said: “It is saddening to hear the number of people losing their lives in water related incidents each year. Our thoughts are with all of the families affected.

“Water safety is important in all settings. Through our annual Stay Safe. Swim Smart. campaign, we’re offering families the opportunity to build confidence, learn life-saving skills and enjoy water safely this summer.

“We are running a number of events and activities during the next few months, including our free CPR sessions. We’re inviting people to come along and meet Annie, our CPR training dummy, at the Lagoons reception area at The Dome.

“Our team will demonstrate simple, practical CPR skills and show how you can help save a life in an emergency. There will be plenty of opportunities to have a go and ask questions.

“Everyone is welcome, whether you’re coming to swim with us at the Lagoons or want to learn some skills with your children, which could make a real difference.”

The DCLT team will also be out and about during the week at community events including Lakeside Village Outlet Shopping on June 13, Askern Summer Fayre on June 13.

“We are working with colleagues, on this annual campaign, to reach more people to improve water confidence, promote swimming skills, and raising awareness of risks, we hope to prevent avoidable tragedies and support safer communities across Doncaster,” added Craig.

For more information on events and sessions, visit Summer Water Safety 2026 or follow DCLT on social media