Brighton and Hove benefit from a splash of free swimming

Labour in Brighton and Hove has welcomed the government’s offer to provide free swimming for more than twenty million people aged 16 and under and those over 60 who will swim for free from next April (2009).

Brighton and Hove is one of 291 local authorities (82%) who have chosen to offer free swimming for those aged 60 and over. In addition the City is one of 211 local authorities who have also chosen to offer free swimming to those aged 16 and under.

Brighton and Hove will receive £268,977 towards getting the city’s old and young swimming for free, with a portion of that money for modernising pool provisions.

Leader of the Labour Group, Cllr Gill Mitchell said:

“It is fantastic news that our Labour Government is encouraging both old and young to get active and improve their health.  It is equally important that during these difficult economic times, hard working families are still able to afford healthy leisure activities.  Free swimming in Brighton and Hove is a step towards saving the NHS money as we tackle childhood obesity and promote healthier lifestyles for all.”

Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Andy Burnham announced that 82 per cent of local authorities, including Brighton and Hove have signed up to take part in a £140 million Government scheme.  He said:

“This initiative has made it possible for millions of people in the UK to swim for free. I’m very pleased that 82 percent of local authorities have signed up to get the over 60s in the pool, showing a real commitment to driving forward sports participation in their areas.

“The Government has invested £140 million in the free swimming scheme because we’re confident it will be embraced by people up and down the country. This is a key part of our plans to leave a lasting legacy from London 2012 and we want to this scheme to bring about a real cultural shift. There has never been a better time to hit the pool.”