Labour Helps Locals Get Active - Free Swimming starts today!

April pools day!  Labour makes a splash for no cash

Adrian Bailey MP today welcomed the launch of free swimming across Sandwell for individuals aged 60 and over and those under 16.

Four out of every five local councils in England – almost 300 - have signed up to provide free swimming for over 60s, with more than 200 councils offering it too for young people. The £140 million Government initiative was announced last June, – delivering on a Labour Government promise to help get two million people more active by the time London hosts the Olympics and Paralympics in 2012.

Adrian Bailey MP said,

“It is great to see the national launch of Free Swimming today.  I am proud to see that Sandwell, a Labour Council, has backed the scheme to offer free swimming to people over 60 and under 16.  This scheme will provide a fun and now accessible means of keeping fit and active and I am glad to see Sandwell’s Labour Council demonstrating its clear commitment to the health and well being of the local community.”

Sectretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport said:

“Today is the official launch of free swimming and a landmark moment as we look to build a healthier and more active nation. The take-up of this scheme has exceeded all expectations with over 81% of councils taking part. Thanks to this Government’s £140m investment millions of people in the UK will be able to swim for free which will be a boon for older people, children – and of course their mums and dads.  It will also ensure that local pools are given a new lease of life in the heart of their communities. It is our hope that this is just the beginning and that in time free swimming becomes the norm across the country.”

Notes to Editors:

• Further information on the free swimming initiative and other Olympic legacy schemes is available of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport website: www.culture.gov.uk

• The swimming scheme is jointly funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, Department of Health, Department for Work and Pensions, the Department for Children, Schools and Families and the Department for Communities and Local Government. 

• For information on the Free Swimming Capital Modernisation Programme is available on the Sport England website: www.sportengland.org.