The mystery of why so many black Britons still can't swim
Summary
Many black people in Britain cannot swim, with a large gap compared to white people. Studies show this is not because of physical differences but may be linked to social and historical reasons.Key Facts
- 67% of black women and 44% of black men in England cannot swim 25 meters without help.
- In comparison, only 17% of white women and 12% of white men cannot swim the same distance.
- Poorer people, Muslims, South Asians, and children in social care also have lower swimming ability.
- A 2023 study found that bone density does not affect a person’s ability to float or swim.
- Historical racial exclusion in the US influenced negative ideas about black people and swimming.
- The UK did not have official segregation but may still feel the effects of that history.
- Black children and adults are over-represented in drowning statistics in the UK.
- Swimming skills are supposed to be taught in primary schools, but inequalities remain.
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