DARE to BARE: A topless sponsored swim to raise vital funds and break CPR stigma

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance has partnered with Vobster Quay to launch DARE to BARE, a topless sponsored swim for women that will raise vital funds and challenge the stigma that can prevent women from receiving life-saving CPR.

Taking place on 23 August at Vobster Quay, the event invites participants aged 18 and over to take on a unique open water swim in a supportive and empowering environment. More than a fundraising challenge, DARE to BARE aims to encourage open conversation around chest access in an emergency and build confidence in delivering CPR to women, when every second counts.

Tackling the CPR gender gap

Women are less likely to receive bystander CPR or survive an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest than men, with hesitation around chest access often cited as a barrier. DARE to BARE will raise awareness of this disparity and reinforce a simple but critical message: in an emergency, saving a life is most important.

Claire Baker, Critical Care Practitioner at Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance said:

“Attending patients in cardiac arrest is a frequent part of our clinical work . Unfortunately, I have witnessed the consequences of delayed or absent CPR, and the evidence is clear that women are disproportionately affected. Women experiencing cardiac arrest at home or in a public place are less likely to receive bystander CPR than men.

In a cardiac arrest, every minute without intervention reduces survival by up to 10%, and any delay can be fatal. At DSAA we have offered CPR education to the public for many years. Our CPR awareness sessions show how CPR is a as a simple, life-saving intervention that should be delivered without hesitation.

We want to empower our supporters to offer women the same immediate, confident life-saving treatment as men, and we are excited that DARE to BARE will raise awareness of this inequality.”

Alongside the swim, participants will learn CPR skills using our new female CPR manikins. Introduced to build confidence in practising CPR on women, these will be used across our CPR and defibrillator awareness sessions throughout Dorset and Somerset, supporting our mission of creating a heart-safe community for all.

By combining a bold fundraising challenge with a powerful message, we hope that DARE to BARE will inspire confidence in performing life-saving CPR on women during an emergency.

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Tania Eveleigh, Events Manager at Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance said:

“DARE to BARE is about creating a space where women feel empowered and confident, all while raising awareness of an issue that could save lives.

This event is made even more special thanks to Vobster Quay, a long-standing supporter of Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance. By opening this incredible venue to non-members, participants can enjoy a truly memorable and freeing swim in one of the UK’s best open water facilities, surrounded by beautiful Somerset countryside.

Around a quarter of our call-outs are for cardiac arrests, where early intervention from bystanders can be critical. Every participant will not only help raise funds for our life-saving service, but will also have the opportunity to learn potentially life-saving CPR skills and gain the confidence to act in an emergency.

We are also grateful to Zoggs for their support of the event through the donation of swim caps for all participants, helping to make the day even more memorable.

Together, we will create an unforgettable experience that celebrates confidence, community, wellbeing and the power of helping others.”


Ready to DARE to BARE?

DARE to BARE takes place at Vobster Quay on 23 August and is open to women aged 18 and over.

  • Open water swim with short, medium and longer distance options available
  • CPR and Defibrillator Awareness Session
  • £30 entry fee
  • £50 minimum fundraising target
  • Each participant will receive a Zogg’s Silicone swim cap, post-swim refreshments and a free event t-shirt for participants who raise over £50

Join us for an unforgettable evening, learn vital skills and help to break the stigma around chest access in an emergency.

Sign up now

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