The Government’s recent announcement about free swimming for the over 60’s has made a lot of headlines, and guidance has now been issued to Local Authorities about the scheme, as it will be up to Local        Authorities to signal their intent to implement it in their area.  It may not therefore be available to everyone.  Local Authorities have until the 15th September to inform the Government if they wish to participate.  They can only receive funding for free swimming for under 16’s if they are implementing the over 60’s part of the scheme. 

It is not only pools that are owned by the Local Authority that can be involved, so for example school pools may also benefit—which should encourage Local Authorities to work with other partners in their area to do what it can to promote physical activity and a healthier lifestyle. 

If Local Authorities are implementing free swimming for both the over 60’s and the under 16’s, they can also apply for funding from the capital element of the programme, which means money for modernising pool provision—upgradingfacilities to make them more accessible or more attractive to potential users, explained as’ improving the quality of experience and customer satisfaction  for pool users hence sustaining and increasing participation in water based activity’.

This scheme has funding allocated up to 2011.

This could be a great opportunity for our sport to attract more participants, but a close working relationship with facility management and Local Authority personnel will be crucial in order to take advantage of the potential benefits.