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Physiotherapists speak out in favour of free swimming

Wednesday 1st April 2009

Two NHS physiotherapists have said that the provision of free swimming for pensioners and youngsters under the age of 16 is a good idea.

Recently, the government launched a scheme under which such people living in England will not have to pay for using pools.

The initiative, which is to cost £140 million, was launched by culture secretary Andy Burnham earlier this week.

However, not all local authorities are taking part.

For example, Trafford council said that it would not be offering free swimming because the scheme is not fully funded and because pensioners are not deterred from swimming by current prices.

Criticising the organisation's decision, physiotherapists Jane Baugh and Sophie Taylor - who are also local councillors - said: "It's no joke that our residents, unlike their neighbours in Greater Manchester, cannot enjoy a free swim at their local pool," the Messenger reports.

Under 16s and pensioners would have benefited if the authority had applied for a grant to participate in the initiative, they added.

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