Southampton mum of drowned teen campaigns for water safety minister

The spell of record-breaking hot weather earlier in the year saw a number of people die after getting into difficulties in England while swimming in lakes and rivers.

“We’re calling to government to appoint a water safety minister, which is something that the United Nations (UN) has recognised… and it’s time for the government to act,” Vanessa said.

She said they were working with the water safety industry “who’ve got drowning prevention strategies”.

She said her “healthy, fit, strong” son had died despite having been “really sensible”.

“He was in the flag safe swimming zone, close to lifeguards with friends but a sudden and ferocious rip current came in out of nowhere which knocked them off their feet causing a mass-rescue incident.

“We expected him to come home at the end of that day and tragically, he didn’t which is very hard to process.”

Vanessa said there were similar cases where “nothing was being done that shouldn’t have been and this can still happen”.

“I think there’s an element of naivety and complacency in the country as a whole and if we can look to educate, and by telling our stories make a difference, it could really save lives because anyone can drown.”

She said the campaign had also received “absolutely amazing support” from the Labour MP for Southampton Itchen Darren Paffey.

“If I can feel I can stand with others and raise this for the greater good, it feels like a positive in Joe’s memory,” she added.