Sensory-Friendly Swims in Surrey: Calm Pool Times Offered September 2025 for Mental Well-Being
A guide to Surrey’s inclusive swim sessions, why they matter for mental health, and how they can support neurodivergent and sensory-sensitive communities
Summary
In September 2025, the City of Surrey is running Sensory Friendly Swims—designated pool times at several public recreation facilities—where noise, lighting, and other sensory inputs are reduced to create a safer, more comfortable environment. These sessions are specifically intended for people with sensory processing differences, autism, anxiety, or anyone who benefits from less stimulative surroundings. With additional staff support, sensory kits available, and modifications like turning off background music and limiting speaker announcements, these swims are more than just leisure: they are part of a growing effort to link inclusive recreation with mental health support.
Why Surrey’s Sensory Swims Matter
Many people assume pools are purely physical or recreational spaces. But for individuals with sensory sensitivities, traditional pool environments can create stress, anxiety, or even exclusion. Surrey’s program responds to that gap.
Sensory inputs like echoing voices, loud music, sudden announcements, harsh lighting, or unpredictable water features can overwhelm someone with autism, sensory processing disorder, or high anxiety. Research shows swimming helps in calming the nervous system and improving sensory regulation: a study of children with autism found improved sensory integration, motor coordination, and emotional well-being after adapted swim programs (Swimtime).
By reducing auditory and visual overload, creating predictable transitions, and offering staff support, Surrey’s Sensory Friendly Swims let more people access the wellbeing benefits of water—something that standard public swim times may not allow.
What’s On Offer in September 2025
Here are details of what’s available, where, and how it’s structured:
| Location | Date & Time | Features to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Guildford Recreation Centre | Wednesday, September 17, 1-3 pm (City of Surrey) | Reduced noise, no background music, speaker announcements only in emergencies; break rooms and sensory-friendly transitions |
| Newton Recreation Centre | Tuesday, September 23, 1-3 pm (City of Surrey) | Same inclusive environment; sensory kits (noise-cancelling headphones, fidget toys, ear plugs, etc.) available |
These swims are drop-in or via Recreation Surrey pass. They’re open to all, but especially designed for people who feel overstimulated in regular swim times.
Expert Insights & Behind The Scenes
- Mental Health Professionals say water therapy and sensory-regulated environments help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. The feeling of buoyancy, rhythmic motion, and the general sense of safety in the pool contribute to calming overstimulation and can improve mood and sleep.
- Recreation & Community Staff note there are logistical challenges: balancing regular pool schedules with inclusive times; training staff to recognise sensory overload and respond appropriately; acquiring or sourcing sensory kits; adjusting lighting, sound systems, and signage. These are often unseen but crucial efforts.
- Community Feedback emphasizes how much difference small changes make. Parents and individuals have reported that simply turning off background music or limiting announcements significantly reduces anxiety and increases the likelihood of attending.
- Compared with other cities (e.g. Port Coquitlam in BC) that have introduced regular sensory swims (Tri-Cities Dispatch), Surrey’s model is similar: quiet sessions, sensory aids, designated break rooms. What differs is local demand: in Surrey, demand has been driven by families, autism advocacy groups, people with anxiety disorders.
Impacts: Short-Term & Long-Term
Short-Term Positive Outcomes
- Immediate reduction in barriers: people who might have avoided swimming due to sensory overload can now participate.
- Boost to mental health: feeling included and less anxious can lift mood, reduce social isolation, and improve confidence.
Long-Term Implications
- Improved community inclusion. Over time, practices like sensory swims could become more standard in public recreation planning.
- Potential public health benefits: via improved mental well-being and increased physical activity in groups otherwise underserved.
- Influence on policy or funding: success stories could lead to more investment in accessibility, staff training, and adaptive recreation infrastructure.
What’s Still Needed: Gaps & Suggestions
- More Frequent Timing Options
Some people can’t attend midday sessions (working adults, school attendees). Offering early morning, evening, or weekend sensory swims could widen access. - Broader Geographical Coverage
Ensuring that all neighbourhoods have facilities offering these modifications reduces travel barriers. - Ongoing Staff Training & Feedback Loops
Continuously training staff in recognizing and appropriately responding to sensory distress, and collecting participant feedback to refine the program. - Public Awareness
Many people may not know these swims exist or understand what “sensory-friendly” means. Clear communication via city websites, social media, schools, and health clinics helps.
Takeaway
Surrey’s Sensory Friendly Swims in September 2025 are more than just quieter swim times: they represent a shift toward more inclusive community health programming. They rekindle the connection between recreation and mental wellness, giving people with sensory sensitivities a chance to engage, heal, and grow in water.
If you’re someone who’s ever felt overwhelmed by noise, lights, or unpredictability—these sessions are made for you. And if you know someone like that, spread the word. Because inclusion isn’t just kind—it’s essential.
