In line with the theme of Accelerating Action for International Women’s Day 2025, leading Mental Health charity AWARE is celebrating four incredible women who are “Accelerating Action” in the mental health space, each making a meaningful impact within their local community.
From Belfast, Emma Burton, founder of the Sea Swim Squad, has transformed her love for cold water swimming into a vibrant community that promotes positive well-being. “The idea first came about when I was helping a friend into the water. She loved it so much she encouraged me to share my solo hobby with others,” Emma recalls. “After a few days of thinking it over, Sea Swim Squad was born.”
The Sea Swim Squad, which will celebrate its third anniversary in May this year, has grown from a small group of curious swimmers to a thriving community of hundreds, embracing the mental health benefits of cold water therapy. Emma shares how the practice helps with resilience: “Cold water therapy has many benefits, but the impact it has on mental health is massive, and it’s the main reason I and others keep doing it. The post-dip natural high, being outdoors, connecting with nature, and the resilience it builds to help you deal with stress are all big factors of why we do it so often.”
It’s not just the physical benefits that matter; the social aspect of the Sea Swim Squad is equally important. “Having someone to talk to, share our problems with, and support each other creates bonds and friendships that people really need in their life,” Emma adds. “It’s amazing to see how the group brings people together and makes them feel more connected.”
Emma has witnessed first-hand the powerful effects of her community. One story she holds dear is that of a swimmer who had once stood at the very location where they now swim, contemplating taking their life. “They explained to me that the year before, they were standing at that same spot questioning their own life. Luckily, their story didn’t end there, and now the location holds a new story—a fun and loving one of meeting new people, making friends, and enjoying life again,” she says.
Emma’s commitment to raising awareness and supporting mental health goes beyond the Sea Swim Squad. She has been an active participant in AWARE NI campaigns and fundraising events, including the Sea Splash, helping to raise both funds and awareness for the charity’s essential work. “I suffered badly with depression a few years back, and I know the struggles it brings when you feel like you have nobody to turn to,” Emma explains. “AWARE NI has always been so helpful with information, guidance, and brilliant support groups. So I never have any doubts when they ask for support.”
By fostering safe spaces for open conversations and creating opportunities for meaningful connection, Emma embodies the spirit of “Accelerating Action” this International Women’s Day. Alongside AWARE NI, they are ensuring that more people can access the support and understanding they need.
AWARE was established in 1996 and so has been delivering mental health support services to local people for nearly 30 years. The charity delivers 24 mental health support groups across Northern Ireland in 21 physical locations and 3 online. These groups provide a safe and supportive space for individuals facing mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. Led by trained volunteers with lived experience, the groups provide a safe space to share experiences and foster solidarity within the community. With a compassionate approach, the groups promote resilience and well-being among its members, serving as a beacon of hope in difficult times. AWARE also provides a range of training programmes delivered in workplaces, community settings and schools that aim to build resilience and equip people with appropriate skills to manage their mental health. Other services include email and telephone assistance, outreach activities and awareness campaigns.
AWARE NI depends on the generosity of Northern Ireland’s public and local businesses in continuing to deliver its essential mental health services. Each support group costs £8,500 per year to run, making fundraising crucial to sustaining this vital community support. To help meet these needs, the charity has planned a range of fundraising events throughout 2025, including the Giant Steps walk, exhilarating abseils, refreshing sea splashes, and engaging golf days. For more information on all fundraising activities and the mental health support available, visit aware-ni.org.
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