Warwickshire Woman Makes Waves with Open Water Swimming Business
In a inspiring tale of passion meeting enterprise, a Warwickshire resident has transformed her love for open water swimming into a thriving business venture. Louise Powell, the founder of Together We Swim, is set to expand her operations in 2026 after leaving her career as an occupational therapist, buoyed by support from the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce.
From Hobby to Thriving Enterprise
Louise initially took up open water swimming as a personal hobby, quickly discovering its profound benefits for both physical and mental wellbeing. This experience ignited a passion that led her to train as a certified open water swimming coach. She launched Together We Swim, offering monthly introductory group sessions that have since introduced more than 250 individuals to the joys of swimming in natural settings.
The business operates from the picturesque Burton Farm Cafe in Burton Hastings, where swimmers enjoy the pristine natural spring water surrounded by lush trees and wildlife. Louise has cultivated a strong, supportive community of enthusiasts who continue to swim together long after completing their initial lessons.
Chamber Support Fuels Growth
Through the fully funded Project Warwickshire programme, Louise received invaluable one-to-one guidance from business adviser Russell Grant. This support has been instrumental in helping her develop essential business acumen and identify sustainable revenue streams. Russell emphasised the importance of safety and proper instruction in the popular activity, noting that Louise's unique blend of occupational therapy expertise and coaching skills has been key to her success.
Louise reflected on her journey, stating: "I wanted something inclusive where it didn't matter how you looked and could just be yourself. Discovering open water swimming was a revelation, and combining it with my professional background felt natural. The support from Russell has been transformative, making business concepts accessible and empowering me to focus on growth."
Local Government Backing
Councillor Rob Howard, Portfolio Holder for Economy at Warwickshire County Council, praised the initiative: "Project Warwickshire is designed to bolster small businesses in sectors like leisure and tourism. Louise's story exemplifies how passion, coupled with dedicated support, can create sustainable enterprises that enrich our community."
Councillor Nicky King of Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council added: "We are committed to fostering business growth in our borough. Partnerships like this enable entrepreneurs like Louise to access crucial resources and thrive."
The Project Warwickshire Business Support programme is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Warwickshire County Council, part of devolution efforts to enhance local economic resilience.
