Why We Dive: The Story Behind DiveInclusive

The first time I took a breath underwater, I didn’t just discover diving—I discovered a world that made me feel weightless, present, and free. That feeling is what DiveInclusive was born to share.

Who We Are

DiveInclusive is a Black-led charity based in Swindon, dedicated to introducing young people from underrepresented backgrounds to the world of scuba diving. We believe everyone deserves the chance to feel the freedom, confidence, and joy that diving can bring.

Founded in 2024, DiveInclusive was created to break down barriers—cultural, financial, and psychological—that have historically kept certain groups out of the sport. We run free weekly sessions and fully subsidised training opportunities that open the underwater world to kids who might never have imagined themselves in it.

Why Representation Matters in Diving

Scuba diving is a life-changing experience, but for many young people from underrepresented communities, it simply hasn’t felt accessible. Whether it’s due to cost, lack of exposure, or simply not seeing anyone who looks like them in the sport, diving can feel out of reach.

That’s where DiveInclusive comes in.

We create safe, welcoming spaces where children feel seen, supported, and empowered to try something new. We believe that when young people from all walks of life see themselves reflected in every environment—even underwater—it sends a powerful message: You belong here.

How It Works

Our sessions run every Wednesday evening at Ridgeway Leisure Centre in Swindon. We start with free Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) experiences, then offer progression opportunities through programs like the Explorer program & Open Water Diver courses. All of this is made possible through donations, sponsorships, and a community that believes in what we do.

We cover the full training costs—participants only pay a small admin fee. Equipment is provided and our instructors are fully certified professionals.

The Impact So Far

In our first year, we’ve:

  • Introduced dozens of children to scuba diving for the first time
  • Supported children in progressing to more advanced diving qualifications
  • On the verge of producing our first cohort of fully certified divers
  • Sparked confidence, curiosity, and excitement across our sessions

Looking Ahead

We’re currently expanding our offer to include young carers a group who, like our core demographic, often face barriers to participation in outdoor activities. We’re also developing a blog (this being our very first one 🙂 )  & newsletter to keep families and supporters engaged.

As we grow, one thing will stay the same: our commitment to making diving a space where inclusion leads.

How You Can Support

DiveInclusive only exists because people believe in it.

If you’d like to be part of this journey:

  • Donate – £20 covers a child’s first dive
  • Shop – Our merch store helps fund our mission
  • Spread the word – Tell a parent, teacher or youth worker
  • Partner with us – We’re always open to community connections

Thank you for diving in with us.

Let’s keep going—deeper and further together.

#DiveInclusive #InclusiveAdventure #RepresentationMatters #SwindonYouth #WhyWeDive #ScubaDiving

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