Preston's free swimming campaign is extended - here's how to get involved
Preston City Council is celebrating the success of its free swimming campaign - by extending it into next month.
The initiative, which is in conjunction with GLL (Greenwich Leisure Ltd) is now running until Sunday, April 12.
Thousands of local children and adults have so far enjoyed swimming at West View and Fulwood Health and Leisure Centres. A total of £95,000 has been invested by the council to support the delivery of the campaign, enhance existing changing facilities by increasing the number of family cubicles, and commission independent advice on how to improve accessibility for disabled users at both centres.
Demand ‘exceptionally high’
Since launching, the campaign has already seen more than 120 Preston children eligible for Free School Meals enrol in fully funded swimming lessons, with demand described as “exceptionally high”. This uptake reflects the council’s commitment to helping every child learn essential life skills, build confidence in the water, and benefit from long-term health improvements.
In addition, more than 1,100 residents which includes; under18s, adults receiving income support, seniors aged 66 plus, and parents on maternity or paternity leave, have taken part in free public swimming sessions.
Councillor Zafar Coupland, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing at Preston City Council, said: “It’s fantastic to see so many residents embracing the free swimming offer. Swimming is a vital way to stay active, support wellbeing and connect with others, and the level of demand shows just how much this initiative is valued across our communities.
“Our partnership with GLL is helping ensure that everyone, regardless of age, ability or financial circumstances, has the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of being in the water.”
Resident Discount Card
The campaign follows the introduction of the new Resident Discount Card, which has already been taken up by nearly 1,300 residents. The card offers a 20 oer cent discount on swimming, fitness classes, gym sessions and hot drinks at both leisure centres.
Michael Manley, GLL's Preston Partnership Manager, said: “We have been astonished by the renewed enthusiasm for swimming from Preston's residents. These schemes are a brilliant example of how local people, our partners and the Council can work in partnership to make a real difference to people's lives. We have seen a 30 per cent increase in footfall to Fulwood and West View Leisure Centres since these schemes were launched.
“Local people have proven they care about their health and wellbeing and have inspired us to work even harder to ensure we keep providing accessible, inclusive and high-quality swimming and leisure facilities in the city for years to come.”
Get involved
The deadline to register interest in free-swimming, which includes funded lessons and teen access, is now Sunday, April 12.
Don't miss out, check your eligibility, and register your interest. For more information, go to the Better - Funded Swimming Scheme website or head in centre and speak to a member of staff.
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