Strokes Ahead Support Fund

The global COVID-19 pandemic has created a very uncertain landscape for  millions of British small businesses, which is going to make it very challenging for businesses to survive. 

Strokes Ahead Learn to Swim Academy is an established business seeking to expand from its already strong position in the market. We are currently limited by a lack of available pool time but have a growing demand for lessons.  

The bespoke facility is the natural next step as the business continues to grow and needs additional access. In addition the pool will open up the opportunity to accept other lines of business, which we currently have to turn away, such as hydrotherapy, aqua-fitness classes and baby lessons.

The bespoke facility is a new pool provided by a local business with much experience. As they are located within walking distance, all maintenance, upkeep and repair is on hand with a willing provider. This is in contrast to the existing resource where the facilities are older and prone to more frequent breakdown with the loss of use and subsequent impact on the business and members.

We have already discussed new lines of business with a local training provider who is keen to use our facility for their business. In addition we have opportunity to increase our lesson provision and to provide other types of water-based activity that are currently not possible in the water time available.

As the economy emerges from the current pandemic this expansion means we can continue to offer work to a range of teachers who would otherwise be unemployed. As the business expands we can also consider additional contracts and perhaps the opportunity for apprenticeships. 

As a local provider we are also aware of community needs. The new pool is close enough for existing customers to move without much additional travel. In addition the requests for daytime operation can be met with activities sought by the community, at the top of our priority list. 

The early years of the Strokes Ahead business have provided the opportunity for learning, training and the build of experience. We can put all of this to good use in this new facility with experienced fully trained staff, including pool plant operation, and a strong knowledge of poolside and dryside management.

The business has an underpinning support structure of family members who bring business, finance knowledge, management expertise and a willingness to step up and do all that is necessary to build a welcoming and safe environment. This business model has proved to be successful and many of our customers like to see the family unit when bringing children to learn to swim with Strokes Ahead. 

In conclusion, we see this new pool as the next step for the business that will herald a new era and lead to a continued growth of provision for our current and prospective members.