The Scottish Building Society Foundation awarded funding to Dr Bells Family Centre to boost their wild swimming programme which provides guided swimming sessions from professionals to parents who are looking for a break from the challenges of parenthood.

Dr Bells provides a welcoming space for families with young children in Edinburgh, where they can receive encouragement, support, and advice in a relaxed atmosphere. Their wild swimming sessions have been very popular, designed to promote mental and physical wellbeing for parents dealing with stress, anxiety, and isolation. The support of the Foundation will help the programme expand and offer even more parents the opportunity to experience the benefits of wild swimming.

"Parents often put themselves last time and time again, and that often takes a toll," explains Megan Henry, Early Years Manager at Dr Bell’s Family Centre.

She said: "This programme is about giving them a moment to focus on themselves, surrounded by nature and a supportive community. It’s not just swimming, it’s a chance to breathe, reset, and reconnect.

Paul Denton, Chief Executive of Scottish Building Society, said: “By supporting the wild swimming programme, we’re not only helping parents, struggling or also creating ripple effects that benefit their families and communities.

“We’d encourage any parent who is struggling or just needs a little bit of support to contact Dr Bell’s. While you may not want to take the plunge into Scotland’s wild waters, they will be on hand to offer help and advice where needed.

"As a mutual organisation, we are committed to strengthening communities across Scotland. The charities supported through this round of funding reflect the incredible work happening on the ground to tackle issues such as isolation, mental health, and youth development.

Find out more about Dr Bells here