Millions may miss out on free swimming
The government’s plan to offer free swimming to those aged under 16 and over 60 has come under fire as it emerged millions of those eligible may miss out.
Two hundred and eleven councils (60 per cent) have opened their swimming pools for free to both the under 16’s and over 60’s, while 291 local councils (82 per cent) will allow free swimming to the over-60 age group only.
According to critics, this means that many people targeted will not have the free access to swimming pools that was announced.
Don Foster, Liberal Democrat sports spokesman, threw scorn on the government’s plans.
“The reality is that millions of those eligible will miss out because their local council hasn’t signed up to the scheme,” he said.
“The government has failed to address issues such as the cost of providing the scheme and the financial impact of non-residents using facilities.
“Ministers didn’t have the foresight to include funding for swimming lessons within the scheme.”
Not everyone agrees with the poor assessment of the scheme and the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) has welcomed the plans.
David Sparkes, ASA’s chief executive officer, said: “We welcome this excellent investment in swimming which will allow local authorities to provide free participation for the over 60s and under 16s if appropriate.
“Swimming is an excellent activity because it is so beneficial to health, as well as an enjoyable skill that requires no special equipment but can save lives.”
The ASA has been consulted by the government throughout the process and continue to offer advice.
