Cambridge cancels some swimming programs amid staffing shortage

The City of Cambridge is in need of lifeguards and in danger of having to cancel more swimming programs. 

So far three programs have been cancelled by the city due to the lack of available lifeguards.

Morning swims at W.G. Johnson pool and daytime programming on Wednesdays at John Dolson pool are among those affected. 

“As common across Canada, the City of Cambridge has been experiencing aquatics staff shortages for many months,” said Rachel Fraser, manager of recreation, culture and sport for the city. 

City staff have been trying to rearrange and shift aquatic programming to minimize the impact the staffing shortage is having on the local pools. 

In Guelph, they are facing a similar issue, seeing programs cancelled and causing massive revenue loss for the city. 

The City of Guelph is expecting to see $100,000 to $150,000 in lost revenue and nearly 90 per cent of its private swim lessons being reduced. 

While Cambridge’s situation is not as dire, city staff are in a crunch to find more lifeguards before more programs are affected and a loss of revenue is reported. 

“To avoid any greater impact the City of Cambridge is reviewing an initiative aimed to increase certified Instructors and Lifeguards within our community,” said Fraser. 

The city is also launching an initiative to help train more students and those interested in becoming a lifeguard. They will look to fill around 20 positions. 

Residents who are over 16 years of age and complete a swim assessment, will have the opportunity to participate in the Complete Lifesaver Course free of charge. 

Wages for lifeguards and teachers will also be increased by 17 per cent; bringing the hourly rate for lifeguards and instructors to $18.50/hour and deck supervisors to $20/hour.

Courses will begin in the fall and more details will be coming in the next few weeks, said Fraser.