To overcome this, Reclink is continuing its work with the Migrant Resource Centre North, Women's Friendship Group and Thrive to help female migrants feel safe around water.

Sixteen migrants from Bhutan and Afghanistan are two weeks into their eight-week course at the Brent Wrankmore Swim School.

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Reclink northern sport and recreation coordinator Rebekah Illingworth said the program was special because it gives members a chance to have a go.

"It's a 16 female program and Brent and his instructors are simply going back to the basics with blowing bubbles and that sort of thing," she said.

"It will be run again and we hope that next time around we do a mum's and bubs migrant class."

Ms Illingworth said the migrants' confidence in the water increases by the end of the program.

The program has been running for about four years.

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