Supported Swimmer Project
Everyone is welcome at mass participation events, but not everyone can take part easily. We are changing that.
Our Supported Swimmer Project pairs a disabled swimmer with a trained support swimmer for training and on event day. The support swimmer offers pacing, confidence, safety awareness, and encouragement so you can take part your way. We began our Support Runner project in 2023 and it still offers many opportunities. The Supported Swimmer Project builds on that success by removing barriers and opening up new possibilities in swimming events, with dedicated support swimmer training currently in development.
How we support you
A matched support swimmer for training sessions and on event day
Help with route, pacing, and water confidence
Clear safety and communication protocols
About the Supported Swimmer Project
Keep an eye out for updates on Swim Serpentine 2026. Get in touch if you’d like support with this event or are interested in being a support swimmer. To find out more about our Supported Swimmer Project email: supportedrunner@whitehead.foundation
Swim Serpentine Pilot 2025
In 2025, we piloted the Supported Swimmer Project at Swim Serpentine.
Two women, both called Sophie, were matched through the Supported Swimmer Project. They began as strangers and became a team with a shared goal.
After a cancer diagnosis, swimming became Sophie’s lifeline. She remembers celebrating 14 lengths in the pool. Now she has completed the two mile course at Swim Serpentine, with the other Sophie beside her as her support swimmer every stroke of the way.
Here is what Sophie shared before the swim.
“After my cancer diagnosis, swimming became a lifeline. I was ecstatic when I managed 14 lengths. With a support swimmer beside me, I am ready for 2 miles in open water.”
Team Sophie’s Story
Together, Team Sophie shows how a good match can remove barriers and open new possibilities in swimming events. See their training video below.