Club trip to Capernwray handling, AED and line-laying. All this has increased my knowledge in lots of ways. I have also been able to work through my Ocean Diver and Sports Diver qualifications, and hope to one day become a dive instructor.
Diving makes me happy; I feel a sense of calm and peace when I am under the water. By building my underwater confidence, I have gained confidence in lots of other areas of my life, including in school and Cadets, which has led to me completing other courses and qualifications, including the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification.
Diving within the Bradford BSAC family makes me feel welcomed and accepted, helping me to feel less isolated. Mick Barraclough is one of the people who deserves a massive thank you for all the big things, including taking me to dives and helping me develop my skills. My fellow members have provided a space for me to be myself and build a network and family of divers. At club celebrations, camping trips and boat trips, Mick has been there since day one, providing a consistent approach to training, helping me to feel regulated and able to participate and be part of the club.
Further development
As a member of Bradford BSAC, I have had opportunities to join in with snorkelling activities and support with teaching of others, by helping the instructors welcome new snorkellers and divers. I never thought snorkelling would be helpful, but Bob Lock encouraged me to give it a go. He supported me to work on specific snorkelling techniques and helped me to work on my finning, which as a result is now much more efficient. I soon fell in love with snorkelling and Bob has encouraged me to think about completing the Snorkelling Instructor course, which I hope to do in the near future.
Open water diving within the UK is not always easy; I have found some of the winter dives challenging and can become overwhelmed. However, with the help of the Bradford club I have been able to understand the requirements and develop skills to manage my worries so that my dive buddy and I can have enjoyable and safe dives.
Finding suits that fit me and are affordable has been a challenge, especially as I am still growing. With the help of Bernard Stephenson and his skills in fixing and mending all things diving
" I have gained confidence in lots of other areas of my life " related, I have been able to secure a suit that works for me. Bernard is always on hand to reassure me when it comes to my suit, ensuring I stay dry and warm. He has helped me to build up a repair kit that I can take on all dives and continues to teach me how to maintain my kit. Bernard has been there through my many suits over the last few years. Thank you Bernard – I will be forever grateful for everything you have done for me.
Through the understanding, openness and willingness to be inclusive, Bradford
At the annual Menai Boat Run
BSAC has helped me to access diving. They have ensured I can access lessons, dives and training in a way that suits my learning needs, which has proven invaluable to me. My open water diving life is more accessible. It’ s not just those three figures who deserve a huge thank you, it’ s everyone within the Bradford BSAC family.
Bradford BSAC are a welcoming family who will always strive to keep us safe, happy and successful without barriers and have made my diving journey accessible and fun. Thank you Mick, Bob and Bernard for your immense support, understanding and patience. I am forever grateful. �
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