A prominent water safety organization has commended Keir Starmer for supporting the Mirror’s Save Lives for Sam initiative and is urging the Prime Minister to develop a plan of action before the summer season.
In response to 19 water-related fatalities, including 13 children, during the recent heatwave, the Prime Minister has assured the government’s assistance. The Royal Life Saving Society expressed gratitude to the Labour leader for endorsing their cause.
Simmy Akhtar, the charity’s CEO, emphasized the importance of the Prime Minister’s commitment to preventing future drownings. Akhtar stressed the need for immediate action, especially during the upcoming summer holidays, which typically see a rise in water-related incidents.
As temperatures soar and beach visits increase, the Met Office has issued an amber extreme heat warning for certain regions. Keir Starmer voiced his support for the Mirror’s water safety campaign, expressing deep concern over the tragic loss of lives, particularly children.
During the G7 summit in Evian, France, Starmer pledged to back the campaign and implement additional safety measures to ensure public safety, especially for children affected by the recent incidents.
The Save Lives for Sam campaign aims to tackle the alarming rate of child drownings in open waters annually. Named after 16-year-old Sam Haycock, who tragically drowned in 2021, the campaign demands various measures, including public awareness campaigns and mandatory water survival lessons in schools.
Labour MP Lee Pitcher, a strong advocate for the campaign, praised Starmer’s personal commitment and urged the immediate adoption of Sam’s Law. With cross-party and public support, Pitcher emphasized the urgency of saving lives through swift action.
Pitcher and Simon Haycock, father of Sam, joined forces at Parliament to push for legislative changes, supported by other families impacted by water-related tragedies. The campaign has garnered support from multiple organizations and notable individuals in the water safety sector.
A recent report by the Royal Lifesaving Society UK highlighted that the majority of child drownings could have been prevented. Taking proactive measures is crucial in preventing further tragedies in the water.