Taking the plunge in leading
It’s one thing to help out at a swimming group for physically disabled adults. It’s quite another to dive in at the deep end and become the group leader. Yet, that’s what swimming instructor, Neil Russell, found himself doing as result of volunteering with Ecas.
After qualifying as a swimming instructor some years ago, Neil found it hard to get work. Rather than let this deter him, he decided to offer his skills and volunteer for the Ecas swimming group. Of course, we welcomed him with open arms. For his part, his confidence in being part of disabled sport and in supporting other disabled adults rocketed. So, when we needed temporary cover for the group leader’s post, Neil applied for the job, aced the interview, and found himself on the starting block for a full-time career.
As a direct result of the temporary job at Ecas, he landed the post of swimming co-ordinator at a large leisure centre, managing a swimming programme for children and adults. Then, when a permanent job as Ecas swimming group leader came up in 2015, Neil hit the touchpad. He enjoys every moment of leading the swimming group every Monday and Friday. Outwith office hours, he wears out the tyres on his racing wheelchair which Ecas helped him to purchase through its grant fund.
In June 2021, Neil finished University and moved on from Ecas after finding his perfect job working in outdoor education supporting disabled people in Yorkshire. Go Neil!
If Neil’s story inspires you, get in touch with Sam or Ally to find out how volunteering with Ecas can make your life go swimmingly.
Find out about our swimming group.
Find out about Ecas’ grant fund.
