WOMEN only swim sessions are being launched in Ealing as part of a campaign to combat self consciousness about body shape.

The Sport England scheme is designed for women by women and will take place at the Everyone Active Acton Centre and Northolt Leisure Centre three times a week.

The THIS GIRL CAN campaign celebrates active women of all shapes and sizes and opposes the usual stylised and idealised images of women.

Sport England chief executive Jennie Price said: “Swimming is a great activity for everyone and our research shows it’s extremely popular with women.

“But we know that many women struggle to find the confidence to swim in public because they fear being judged on how good they are or what they look like.”

She added: “Many also tell us that they’re not sure about their local pool.

“We want to hear what women think about the sessions so that they can continue to be improved.

“If successful, we hope to see these sessions roll out nationally.”

Everyone Active works in partnership with Ealing Council and manages the Everyone Active Acton Centre and Northolt Leisure Centre.

Their aim is to increase the participation of local people in leisure activities and to advocate a minimum of 30 minutes exercise five times per week.

Everyone Active swim manager Jacqui Tillman said: “We know women love swimming but this doesn’t always translate into them feeling comfortable enough to come to their local pool.

“We want to change this and to make sure we provide a really welcoming environment so have teamed up with THIS GIRL CAN to create these sessions.”

She added: “Our promise to the women of Ealing is that you’ll have a very different experience at Everyone Active Acton Centre and Northolt Leisure Centre where you can relax and enjoy the pool whether on your own or with friends.

“So give it a go.”

THIS GIRL CAN swim sessions will run at Everyone Active Acton Centre on Thursdays 7.30-8.30pm and Sundays 4.30-5.30pm.

Sessions at Northolt Leisure Centre will run on Saturdays 6.30-7.30pm.

For more information call Everyone Active Acton Centre on 020 8825 9001 or Northolt Leisure Centre on 020 8423 7436, or visit www.everyoneactive.com