A new water safety pilot programme for children with autism aged between three and five has been launched by the Ministry for Inclusion and Volunteering, aiming to reduce drowning risks while supporting early skills development and family involvement.
The initiative, announced by Inclusion and Volunteering Minister Julia Farrugia, will run for ten weeks starting in March, with sessions delivered by qualified coaches in heated indoor swimming pools. The programme is designed specifically around the sensory, communication and learning needs of children on the autism spectrum and requires active participation from parents or legal guardians throughout.
Experts say the intervention addresses a serious safety concern. According to studies by the Columbia University Irving Medical Center, children with autism are around 160 times more likely to die by drowning than other children, it said. Child and adolescent consultant psychiatrist Lorraine Azzopardi noted that autistic children are at higher risk of wandering and are often strongly attracted to water, making swimming and water safety education “an absolute priority”.
The programme also aims to build confidence and independence. Leanne Xuereb Ungaro, head coach at Just Keep Swimming Malta, said sessions will focus not only on learning to swim but also on helping children feel safe and secure in aquatic environments.
Government officials say the pilot aligns with Malta’s long-term social policy goals by promoting inclusion, reducing inequalities and supporting families. Minister Farrugia described the initiative as a practical example of early, inclusive investment that strengthens children’s safety and wellbeing while recognising parents as key partners in development.
Applications are open to eligible children who hold a European Disability Card and must be submitted online through the Ministry’s website. The deadline for applications is Friday, 20 February 2026.