‘Durham Otters’ Swimming club has been running for over 40 years in Durham city centre to provide a safe and friendly environment for those who find public swimming sessions unsuitable, but who would like to swim, exercise or relax in a pool.
The charity, run entirely by volunteers, gives disabled adults and children the chance to socialise and exercise in a safe and relaxing environment.
John and Kirstine Chamberlayne have coordinated the Otters swim club sessions for the last 40 years and now, both in the 80’s, are hoping to step back from their voluntary roles and fully embrace their retirement. We are looking for enthusiastic and organised people to take over their roles.
The role(s) are mainly around being available to help take the weekly register and be a point of contact for any new queries received into the club. You will have the full support of the Universities Volunteering and Community Outreach team, the parents of the children who take part, a board of trustees and also the Durham University students who lead the sessions. This could be as little as 4-6 hours per month but would mean the longstanding and valued programme can continue to run in the future.
It is optional to get involved in the swimming sessions.
Organised
Enthusiastic
Leadership
Swimming/lifeguard experience (not essential)
The club runs sessions on a Monday evening at Freeman’s quay from 7.15pm – 8.15pm. Kids enjoy the opportunity to play and learn to swim, and adults have the peace of mind of in-water physical support and company whilst swimming or learning to swim.
DBS checks provided
For more information you can contact John and Kirstine directly at otters@durham-otters.org.uk or Phillip Hancock who will be supporting the roles and student leaders at phillip.k.hancock@durham.ac.uk.
