Wild Swimming: Why the Risks Are Greater Than Many People Realise

Wild swimming has become one of the UK's fastest-growing outdoor activities. 

Social media is filled with stunning photographs of people swimming in crystal-clear lakes, secluded rivers and dramatic coastal coves, often accompanied by claims of improved mental health and a closer connection with nature.

While many people enjoy wild swimming safely, it is important to remember that natural bodies of water can present serious hazards that are very different from those found in supervised swimming pools. Before taking the plunge, it is worth understanding the potential dangers to both your physical safety and your health.

Hidden physical dangers

One of the biggest risks is that you never truly know what lies beneath the surface. Rivers and lakes can contain submerged branches, rocks, discarded shopping trolleys, fishing equipment, broken glass and other debris capable of causing serious injuries.

Water depth can also be deceptive. A seemingly calm stretch of river may become unexpectedly deep just a few metres from the bank, while hidden drop-offs can catch swimmers by surprise.

Strong currents are another major concern. Rivers may appear gentle on the surface while concealing powerful underwater currents that can quickly overwhelm even experienced swimmers. Coastal swimming brings additional hazards, including rip currents, tides and changing weather conditions that can rapidly turn a pleasant swim into an emergency.

Cold water shock is perhaps the greatest immediate danger. Even during summer, many UK lakes and rivers remain surprisingly cold. Entering cold water suddenly can trigger an involuntary gasp, rapid breathing, increased heart rate and loss of muscle control. In some cases, this can lead to drowning within minutes.

Infection risks

Natural water is rarely sterile. It can contain bacteria, viruses and parasites originating from wildlife, livestock, sewage overflows and agricultural run-off.

One of the best-known risks is Leptospirosis, also known as Weil's disease. This bacterial infection is spread through the urine of infected animals, particularly rats, and can enter the body through cuts, grazes or the eyes, nose or mouth. Early symptoms resemble flu but severe cases can damage the liver and kidneys.

Swimmers may also be exposed to bacteria such as E. coli following sewage discharges or heavy rainfall. While many strains are harmless, others can cause severe diarrhoea, stomach cramps and vomiting.

Natural waters can also contain parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium, both of which can lead to prolonged gastrointestinal illness. Swallowing even a small amount of contaminated water may be enough to cause infection.

Blue-green algae, which can develop during warm weather, pose another serious concern. Despite the name, these are actually cyanobacteria capable of producing toxins that can cause skin irritation, sickness, diarrhoea and, in severe cases, liver damage. Water affected by algal blooms may appear green, blue-green or resemble pea soup, but blooms are not always obvious.

Cuts and wounds

Even minor cuts received while swimming can become infected. Bacteria naturally present in freshwater or seawater may enter broken skin, leading to painful infections that require medical treatment. Anyone with open wounds should think carefully before entering untreated water.

Who should take extra care?

Wild swimming may be particularly risky for:

Young children

Older adults

Pregnant women

People with weakened immune systems

Anyone with heart or lung conditions

People with epilepsy or other medical conditions that could affect their safety in water

Reducing the risks

If you do decide to go wild swimming, never swim alone. Choose recognised swimming locations where water quality is monitored where possible, avoid entering the water after heavy rainfall or known sewage discharges, check for local warnings about blue-green algae, enter the water gradually to reduce the effects of cold water shock, and avoid swallowing the water. 

Shower thoroughly afterwards and seek medical advice if you develop flu-like symptoms, persistent diarrhoea or unusual skin rashes following a swim.

A balanced view

There is no doubt that many people enjoy wild swimming without incident, and some report feeling calmer and more energised afterwards. However, the potential risks should never be underestimated. Natural waters are unpredictable environments where hidden hazards, cold temperatures and harmful microorganisms can combine to create life-threatening situations.

For many people, a supervised swimming pool offers a far safer way to enjoy the physical and mental benefits of swimming without exposing themselves to the additional dangers that rivers, lakes and the sea can present.

Ultimately, if you choose to swim in the wild, make sure your decision is based on a clear understanding of the risks rather than the picture-perfect images that often appear on social media.

Londoner cycles Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way to honour sister lost to brain tumour

Sarah De Groen knows exactly why she is taking on one of Europe's toughest cycling routes. Every mile she pedals along Ireland's spectacular Wild Atlantic Way is a tribute to her younger sister Rachel, whose life was cut tragically short by an aggressive brain tumour.

The 39-year-old from Edgware set off on 20 July with an ambitious goal of cycling the entire 1,600-mile Wild Atlantic Way in just 20 days. 

Along the way, she hopes to raise vital funds for The Brain Tumour Charity, which supports families affected by brain tumours, funds pioneering research and campaigns for better treatment and care.

Sarah's determination comes from a deeply personal place.

Rachel De Groen was just 19 when she was diagnosed with what was later identified as a diffuse midline glioma, an aggressive and incurable brain tumour. Doctors initially gave her only three months to live, but Rachel defied expectations and survived for another 15 months.

Those extra months became precious time for the entire family.

Rachel, the youngest of seven siblings, was known for her gentle nature and her love of children, art, fashion, butterflies and the colour pink. Her nieces and nephews adored spending time with her because she would happily sit on the floor playing games with them for hours.

One of the most striking aspects of Rachel's illness was how subtly it began. Rather than headaches or balance problems, the earliest warning signs were changes in her personality. She gradually withdrew from family, struggled with her mental health and became increasingly unwell before doctors finally discovered the tumour.

The diagnosis devastated the family, but instead of allowing despair to take over, they resolved to make every remaining day count. Birthdays became treasured occasions, family outings were organised whenever Rachel felt well enough, and even her brother brought forward his wedding so she could be there.

Sarah told That's Health that experience completely changed how she viewed life.

She explains that when someone you love is dying, everyday worries suddenly become insignificant. It taught her to value every moment and inspired her to take on endurance challenges in Rachel's memory.

Having previously completed the famous Land's End to John O'Groats cycle ride, Sarah is now tackling the even greater elevation and distance of Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way. She hopes to complete the challenge on 12 August, marking the anniversary of Rachel's diagnosis.

As well as remembering her sister, Sarah hopes her journey will raise awareness of brain tumours and the urgent need for more research into better treatments.

Her message is both simple and powerful: life is precious, every day is a gift, and by supporting research today, more families may be spared the heartbreak that hers experienced.

Anyone wishing to support Sarah's remarkable fundraising challenge can donate through her JustGiving page and follow her story as she cycles around one of Europe's most dramatic coastlines.

https://www.thebraintumourcharity.org

https://www.justgiving.com/page/sarah-de-groen-2

Free Family Peace Retreat Offers a Screen-Free Day of Wellbeing in Widnes

Families looking for a chance to slow down, reconnect and enjoy some quality time together this summer will have the perfect opportunity at a special free event taking place in Widnes.

On Sunday 2nd August, Fortuna Female Society and the Brianna Ghey Legacy Project are joining forces to host a Family Peace Retreat at St Marie's Church. 

Open to everyone, whether attending alone, with friends or as a family, the day has been designed to encourage people to switch off from the pressures of everyday life and spend time focusing on their wellbeing.

The event comes at an ideal point in the school summer holidays, when many parents are juggling childcare and children often find themselves spending more time than usual glued to their phones or tablets. Instead of another day spent in front of a screen, the retreat offers a welcoming space where families can relax, learn new wellbeing techniques and enjoy meaningful time together.

The Peace Retreat builds on an existing partnership between the two organisations. Earlier this year, the Brianna Ghey Legacy Project successfully piloted its Flourishing Families programme with Fortuna Female Society's Let Her Shine group, supporting local mums, female carers and their daughters over six sessions. This latest event expands that approach, opening it up to the wider Halton community.

Throughout the day, adults and teenagers can take part in a range of wellbeing sessions held inside a large tipi. Activities include yoga, tai chi, breathwork, meditation and sound baths, all led by experienced local practitioners.

Families haven't been forgotten either. There will be dedicated children's yoga and tai chi sessions alongside Flourishing Families activities, before the day concludes with a relaxing family sound bath that everyone can enjoy together.

Visitors can also take advantage of complimentary taster treatments, including reflexology, Indian head massage and hand massages. 

All activities operate on a first come, first served basis, while food and refreshments will be available to purchase throughout the day. With all activities taking place under cover, the retreat will go ahead whatever the weather.

Laura Bevan, Founder of Fortuna Female Society, told That's Health that the partnership felt like a natural fit, with both organisations sharing a passion for improving wellbeing and strengthening community connections.

Esther Ghey, Founder of the Brianna Ghey Legacy Project, said she was proud to be collaborating on the project's first-ever Peace Retreat and looked forward to welcoming families for a day dedicated to wellness and relaxation.

Admission is free, but advance booking is essential, making this a wonderful opportunity for families to enjoy a calm, restorative day together during the summer holidays.

https://fortunafemale.org

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/peace-retreat-2026-tickets-1992410525516

Hundreds take on Race the Light to support the Chilterns Neuro Centre

An evening of fresh air, exercise and community spirit helped raise well over £3,000 for the Chilterns Neuro Centre as hundreds of runners, walkers and families took part in this year's Race the Light at the stunning Wendover Woods.

Organised by Runaway Racing in partnership with the Chilterns Neuro Centre, the popular event proved that fundraising is about far more than crossing the finish line. 

It brought together people of all ages and abilities to support local people living with multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease and the effects of stroke, while encouraging everyone to enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of spending time outdoors.

Participants were able to choose from three routes designed to suit a wide range of abilities. Experienced trail runners tackled either a demanding 10k or an equally challenging 5k woodland course, while a 1.5k accessible route welcomed wheelchair users, people with mobility challenges and young families, ensuring that everyone had the opportunity to be part of the occasion.

As daylight faded and the woodland took on a magical evening atmosphere, competitors made their way through the forest, encouraged every step of the way by enthusiastic volunteers and supporters. The result was a celebration of fitness, inclusion and community that perfectly reflected the event's purpose.

Among the standout performances were James Davis, who claimed the men's 10k title in an impressive 36 minutes and 18 seconds, while Jessica Carini won the women's 10k in 51 minutes and 34 seconds. Lauren Mayot crossed the line first in the women's 5k in 26 minutes and 26 seconds, with Vincent Mayot taking the men's 5k title in 27 minutes and 55 seconds.

Chris Bradley, Director of Runaway Racing, said the event was about much more than race times, highlighting the importance of bringing people together, enjoying the outdoors and supporting a charity that makes a real difference to local lives.

Kirsty Robson, Community Fundraiser at the Chilterns Neuro Centre, thanked everyone who took part, praising the fantastic atmosphere and the generosity shown by participants, volunteers and supporters throughout the evening.

The event was supported by headline sponsor AngloDutch Accountants, with Managing Partner Ross Bugden saying the company was proud to back both Race the Light and the vital work carried out by the Chilterns Neuro Centre.

Fundraising events such as Race the Light play an important role in helping charities continue to provide specialist services, therapies and support for people living with neurological conditions. At the same time, they remind us that being active, spending time in nature and sharing experiences with others can have enormous benefits for both physical and mental wellbeing.

With another successful Race the Light completed, organisers are already looking ahead to inspiring even more people to lace up their trainers and make a difference next time.

chilternsneurocentre.org

Grünenthal joins German research network to advance next-generation pain therapies

Grünenthal has joined Germany's CNATM innovation network to accelerate research into gene-targeting treatments for chronic pain, epilepsy and neurological diseases.

New collaborations between pharmaceutical companies and research organisations are helping to speed up the search for better treatments for some of the world's most challenging health conditions.

One of the latest partnerships could help advance innovative therapies for people living with chronic pain and a range of neurological disorders.

Grünenthal, a global pharmaceutical company specialising in pain management, has announced that it has joined the Cluster for Nucleic Acid Therapeutics Munich (CNATM), an innovation network bringing together leading universities, research institutes, biotechnology companies and industry partners across Germany.

The collaboration aims to accelerate the development of next-generation nucleic acid medicines – an exciting area of medical research that has the potential to transform how certain diseases are treated.

Unlike many conventional medicines, nucleic acid therapeutics work by targeting the genetic instructions inside cells. Two of the most promising approaches are antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) and small interfering RNA (siRNA). These therapies are designed to influence how genes are expressed, potentially preventing harmful proteins from being produced or helping restore normal cellular function.

Over recent years, Grünenthal has invested heavily in developing expertise in these technologies, particularly for conditions involving chronic pain and diseases affecting the nervous system.

By joining CNATM, the company hopes to improve its understanding of how these therapies can be designed and delivered more effectively, especially to nerve cells involved in pain, epilepsy and neurodegenerative conditions.

Dr Uli Brödl, Chief Scientific Officer at Grünenthal, told That's Health that the partnership would connect cutting-edge academic science with a strong focus on improving outcomes for patients.

He explained that joining the network would allow Grünenthal's scientists to work alongside leading experts who share the ambition of tackling unmet medical needs through innovation.

The CNATM network includes researchers from Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, the Technical University of Munich, the Universities of Regensburg and Würzburg, the Helmholtz Centre Munich, alongside 14 biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies working in genetic medicine.

The cluster forms part of Germany's national Clusters4Future programme and receives funding from the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space. Its goal is to turn promising discoveries in nucleic acid science into practical treatments that could eventually benefit patients around the world.

While these therapies are still under development, collaborations such as this highlight the growing momentum behind genetic medicine. For people living with chronic pain, epilepsy and neurodegenerative diseases, continued investment in research offers hope that tomorrow's treatments could be more precise, more effective and capable of targeting disease in entirely new ways.

http://www.grunenthal.com

AMRADNET Brings a Broader Approach to Radiology Support for the NHS

The pressure on NHS diagnostic services continues to grow, with many hospitals working hard to reduce waiting lists and deliver scan results more quickly. 

While teleradiology has helped ease some of that burden, one healthcare provider believes the NHS now needs a more comprehensive approach to diagnostic capacity.

AMRADNET has officially launched in the UK, offering a radiology service designed to support NHS Trusts beyond traditional remote reporting. Rather than focusing solely on interpreting scans, the company aims to work alongside hospitals to improve the entire diagnostic pathway, helping patients move from scan to diagnosis as quickly and efficiently as possible.

The organisation brings more than 22 years of radiology experience from the United States and international healthcare markets. During that time, it has supported hospitals, imaging centres, urgent care facilities, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation units and other specialist healthcare settings, completing millions of diagnostic studies across a wide range of imaging modalities.

Now expanding its presence in the UK, AMRADNET combines this international experience with a growing team of UK-based radiologists who have extensive NHS expertise. The goal is to provide flexible diagnostic support that helps hospitals improve reporting turnaround times, reduce pressure on overstretched radiology departments and ultimately improve patient care.

The company's services extend well beyond standard teleradiology reporting. They include diagnostic scanning support, interventional radiology assistance and partnerships with Community Diagnostic Centres (CDCs), which have become an increasingly important part of the NHS strategy to provide earlier diagnosis and reduce pressure on acute hospitals.

AMRADNET says it continues to invest heavily in its workforce, clinical governance, technology platforms and operational processes to improve efficiency while maintaining high clinical standards. Every report is delivered within a radiologist-led governance framework designed to ensure patient safety, accuracy and accountability.

Timely reporting is not simply about reducing waiting times. Faster access to diagnostic information allows clinicians to make earlier treatment decisions, improves patient flow through hospitals and can reduce anxiety for patients awaiting important test results.

Jon Priddle, UK Managing Director of AMRADNET UK, told That's Health: "Our aim is to deliver timely radiology expertise that strengthens NHS care and supports better outcomes for patients. Combining the vast experience we have both in the UK and globally, we believe we can make a real difference to the NHS and to patients."

As demand for diagnostic imaging continues to rise across the NHS, partnerships that strengthen capacity while maintaining quality could play an increasingly important role in helping patients receive faster diagnoses and earlier access to treatment.

www.amradnet.co.uk

Celebrating 50 Years of Play: Why Childhood Still Thrives Beyond the Screen

Half a century ago, childhood was filled with climbing trees, building dens, making up games and spending hours outdoors with friends. 

While today's children are growing up in a far more digital world, one thing hasn't changed, their need to play, explore and connect with others.

As Gymboree Play & Music celebrates its 50th anniversary, families across the UK are proving that learning through play remains every bit as valuable today as it was five decades ago.

With increasing concern about children's screen time and studies suggesting parents are spending less time playing with their young children, many families are rediscovering the joy of setting aside dedicated time to laugh, move and learn together.

Across the country, Gymboree Play & Music has become much more than a weekly activity. For many, it has become part of their family's story, creating memories that span generations.

In Hampstead, Zakiyah now takes her 11-month-old son, Hadid, to the very same Gymboree Play & Music centre where she attended classes as a child while her mother taught there. She fondly remembers birthday celebrations, name stickers and the excitement of every session, and is delighted that her son can now experience those same moments of discovery and fun.

Families like Emma and Chris Penn from Solihull have brought all four of their children to classes over more than a decade. They say the sessions have provided invaluable opportunities to spend quality time together while helping each child develop confidence, curiosity and creativity.

The tradition even extends across generations. Jane Goldstein first attended Gymboree Play & Music with her twins and now enjoys watching her grandson Robin experience the same sense of adventure and learning. For her, seeing a new generation benefit from play is both heart-warming and reassuring.

Long-time nanny Melanie Wenham has introduced countless children to Gymboree Play & Music over more than twenty years. She believes the welcoming atmosphere, caring instructors and focus on child development have remained wonderfully consistent, with many of the children she once accompanied still remembering their "Gymbo days" well into adulthood.

These stories offer an uplifting reminder that while technology has transformed modern childhood, the foundations of healthy development remain remarkably familiar. Children still flourish when they can move, imagine, solve problems, build friendships and share joyful experiences with the important adults in their lives.

As Gymboree Play & Music marks its golden anniversary with celebrations across the UK featuring its much-loved mascot Gymbo, the message is clear: screens may have become part of everyday life, but play continues to be one of childhood's greatest gifts.

Fifty years on, the power of play is still helping children grow into confident, curious and happy young people, and that's something well worth celebrating.

https://gymbo.co.uk