Southwark offers free swim and gym to over-60s

Southwark Council has announced that a new pilot project will allow those over the age of 60 to make the most of free leisure access. The council recently announced that a new trial project would allow eligible residents to enjoy free swimming and gym use, and it has now said that it will offer this to over-60s at certain times as well.

Southwark residents aged 18 and under will be able to access swim and gym facilities in the borough on Fridays and on weekend afternoons from May in a bid to improve health and fitness levels among youngsters. 

However, it has now been announced that over-60s will be granted free access to the silver sessions programme at Southwark leisure centres. These run at different times throughout the week, giving older residents a chance to improve their fitness.

Silver sessions run at all leisure centres in the borough, seven days a week. Each day there is a two-hour slot that is tailored to older people in gyms, which will be free to over-60s from May. Four leisure centres will also be offering silver swimming sessions from May, as well as group aqua exercise classes.

Councillor Barrie Hargrove, cabinet member for public health, parks and leisure, said: "Last year, we pledged to offer free swim and gym access to all residents. While only in the pilot stages, we want to ensure we are providing for the groups most in need as well as testing out the system. This is why we are also including over-60s in the pilot, ahead of the general roll out of the programme next summer.

"Increased physical activity is not only a useful tool to encourage healthier lifestyle habits for all and combat weight related diseases, but it is also a great way to look after all round wellbeing, giving you energy for all areas of your life."

Those over-60s who are not currently fusion members will be able to register online and through their local leisure centres to gain a free personal access card that they will be able to use when the scheme launches in May. 

Published 26th January, 2015

© 2015 Estates IT Limited