A daily vigil and a chance to reflect - Louise's Icebreaker

Alice Du Port, Community & Events Executive

23.09.2022

Louise took part in the DIY Icebreaker in 2021 and 2022 as part of the January Daily Dippers. This is her Icebreaker story.

I became involved in the January Daily Dip, as it was something I was aware of on social media. I had seen swimmers doing the Icebreaker at Parliament Hill Lido in January 2021. I had already swum both days in January, so I signed up to the DIY Icebreaker with a friend. During lockdown it was a great way to get through home schooling and have some quiet time at the end of each day as well as benefitting a worthy cause. 

Fast forward to January 2022, we joined up with the original January Daily Dippers team, the brainchild of Jamima Latimer. We were 40 swimmers, mostly across the north of England, coming together either in person or via social media. We used the daily dip as a way of reflecting on issues surrounding homelessness, increasing awareness, and raising funds. 

Having worked in housing projects and mental health services prior to having children it is an issue that I was only too aware of. Being able to be a part of this amazing and inspiring group of individuals was a real privilege.

The aim was to try to view the dips and swims as a chance to reflect rather than a challenge. The group motto is that it’s a daily vigil. For me it reminded me of the work I felt so passionately about, and that even 25 plus years on the issues remain.