My name is Jo van Berckel, co-founder of AbleSwim and AbleStay Accessible Holiday Homes. I manage several Facebook groups for the disability community, where practical advice, trusted recommendations and lived experiences are shared.  Give a job to a busy woman and she’ll get it done!

For nearly 18 years, I've navigated daily life alongside disability. My son Kit, has quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy, is my constant motivation and inspiration.  Over the years, I have discovered products that genuinely make a difference and my goal is always to share that knowledge.

The AbleSwim ring is one of my all-time hero products. We first discovered it over a decade ago and it completely transformed Kit’s experience in the water. 

My business partner, Paul, brings a background in engineering and logistics. Together, we combine lived experience with practical problem-solving, shared values and a strong desire to support others.

The photo above shows us dispatching our very first AbleSwim ring in July 2025.

 

About AbleSwim

AbleSwim was founded to make swimming easier for people with physical disabilities.

Too often, swimming is avoided because it feels like too hard. Yet the physical and emotional benefits of being in the water are too valuable to miss.

AbleSwim launched in July 2025 with one product. Jo’s hero product. The swim ring. We sold out quickly.

Our aim is simple. We wish to design thoughtful, practical products that genuinely work. Products that support disabled swimmers, caregivers, families, schools and care settings. Everything we offer is shaped by lived experience and genuine understanding of needs.