WaterWings was set up in September this year by two young sisters Amelia and Isabelle to support children suffering from neurological conditions like Cerebal Palsy. Isabelle like many of the children at WaterWings has cerebral Palsy and wanted to set up a hydrotherapy /swimming club so that she and other children with similar conditions could access hydrotherapy which currently isn't available locally on the Health Service. The hydrotherapy is being delivered by a qualified physiotherapist supported by a team of volunteers.

What is hydrotherapy ?

It is a series of gentle exercises which can be more manageable when carried out in a heated pool. while the water supports much of the body weight, the resistance of the water helps to strengthen the muscles. The warmth increases circulation and also reduces muscle spasms and helps to relieve the pain.

Physically disabled children, not just those with CP are liable to lose muscle bulk, strength and flexibility through their inability to move independently; these children are said to benefit from hydrotherapy as they are supported in the water and are able, with the assistance of adults, to move their limbs. Physical activity on land may be hard for such children but with the support of the water and assistance from adults they may be able to move their limbs; spontaneous movement in water is much more attainable.

The benefits of hydrotherapy are huge and among other things can:

reduce pain and muscle spasm
strengthen weak muscle groups
improve co-ordination
improve posture
improve balance

The benefits are already being seen with parents reporting that their children have more mobility, they are smiling more and are generally a lot happier as well as a huge increase in their confidence.

The children are also learning to swim with a qualified swimming teacher with a team of volunteers supporting them.

This service is free to the children and funded by volunteers fundraising but costs £120 per week