The BSAC DfA Programme seeks to promote scuba diving to people with disabilities and provide divers, clubs and centres with the knowledge and skills to ensure that diving is safe for all BSAC members.
Divers with disabilities tend to be very motivated and most challenges can be overcome. Being part of a BSAC club has a lot to offer and scuba diving can offer both physical and mental respite for divers.
It is important to understand that people with disabilities may learn to dive or go diving just like any member of any club. The intention or aim of BSAC is for the diver to qualify as a diver and to join their local or chosen club as full member, enjoying all the benefits this brings.
Training for a disabled student should follow the BSAC syllabus in the Diver Training Programme (DTP) and the diving protocols of Safe Diving Practices. Deviations from the DTP should be exceptional and only warranted by the student’s disability. Help and advice is available from BSAC by email or by calling 0151 350 6203 and also by contacting the Diving for All Chief Instructor by email.
Training for a student with disabilities should still be delivered by a nationally qualified BSAC instructor. Achieving either DfA Instructor qualification or completing the DfA Awareness course will additionally help with awareness and avoid unnecessary assumptions being made. The DfA awareness course is also useful for all members of a branch to understand that people with disabilities may learn to dive and go diving just like any member of any club.
There are two courses:
BSAC’s Safeguarding policy contains further information on safeguarding vulnerable adults and equality and diversity within the organisation.
Advice and Guidance
The DfA Advice and Guidance page provides consolidated links to:
- Personal experiences
- Advice and support
- Policies and duty of care
- Wellbeing
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