Swimming against the Tide

Swimming Against the Tide

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BBC Radio 4 - Swimming Against the Tide

Following one woman’s journey, making swimming in Britain more diverse.

Sport England research estimates that 95% of black adults in England do not swim. Determined not to be part of that statistic, Joyce Osei has taken the plunge in her mid-40s.

Watching her children at swimming lessons from the poolside week in, week out, Joyce Osei wondered why there were so few kids in the pool who looked like hers. 

Sport England research estimates that 95 per cent of black adults in England don’t swim, and 80 per cent of children.  And now she’s in her mid-40s, Joyce has decided it’s about time she learned too, joining the other black Britons who are overturning the long-held mindset that people of African heritage can’t or don't swim.

Joyce and other contributors reflect on the social and cultural misconceptions around swimming, and look at the changes underway to make our swimming pools more representative of Britain today.

Producer: Fiona Clampin
Sound Mixing: Mike Woolley
An Overcoat Media production for BBC Radio 4

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