Changes to the Free Swimming Scheme

I have been contacted by a number of constituents about the recent changes to the Free Swimming scheme for children and the over 60’s.  Following an independent review commissioned by Sport Wales, the scheme is being revised to provide new opportunities for young people and the over-60s from the more disadvantaged areas of Wales.

The review found that there has been a significant reduction in participation rates. Currently only around 6% of the over-60s population are accessing the scheme.

The revised initiative will mean a minimum requirement for local authorities to provide a free splash session to young people each weekend, in every local authority-run pool. During the summer holidays, each pool will also be expected to deliver an additional two free sessions during the week. The over 60’s will be able to access a free swimming option and supplementary offers including subsidised swimming.

Implementation will vary locally, therefore people are being advised to speak to their local pool to find out whether any changes will affect sessions they currently attend.