Council launches 50% discount for residents aged 65+ in bid to improve health and well-being.
Given the hot weather, what could be better than taking a plunge in the pool? Well, Rotherham Council has just launched a scheme to make the prospect even more enticing. Its four leisure centres are now offering half-price discount to older residents, in a bid to reduce barriers to physical exercise while providing opportunities for improved mental well-being and social connections.
Photo by Lavi Perchik / Unsplash
Eligible residents simply create a free Places Leisure account at any of the four participating centres, and the price of a swim will drop from £4.30 to £2.15.
The four centres are Aston-cum-Aughton Leisure Centre, Rotherham Leisure Complex, Maltby Leisure Centre, and Wath-upon-Dearne Leisure Centre. The scheme will currently run until March 2027.
Early engagement figures suggest that the scheme is already helping many residents return to swimming for the first time in years, building confidence and promoting healthy habits in the long term.
One participant, Hilda, says: ‘It was a lovely surprise to be able to swim for half the usual price. As a 78-year-old, I am very thankful to be able to continue being active with a weekly swim. To be able to do so at half price was a joy, but also removed the pressure on one occasion when I found myself tight for time. With rising prices on food, petrol, council tax, you name it, it was very welcome indeed.’
Another participant, Christine, adds: ‘I just wanted to say how much I have benefited from the current over-65 discount. It has made my swimming sessions more affordable and encourages me to come as often as I can. This in turn, is good for my health and helps me keep up with my three grandsons who also love to come swimming.’
Cllr Lynda Marshall, Cabinet Member for Waste Services, Leisure and Green Spaces at Rotherham Council, says: ‘This fantastic response from our over-65 residents shows just how important it is to make staying active both affordable and accessible. By reducing the cost of swimming, we’re helping people improve their health, stay connected in their communities, and enjoy a better quality of life.’
Matt Stothard, Contract Manager at Places Leisure, adds: ‘We know how important regular physical activity is for maintaining good health, particularly as we get older, and swimming is especially beneficial. It offers a low-impact, full-body workout that helps improve strength, cardiovascular health and flexibility without putting strain on the joints. It can also reduce the risk of falls by building balance and core strength, while supporting mental wellbeing and improving sleep.
‘Schemes like this are vital in removing barriers and making it easier for people to stay active. Our leisure centres are at the heart of our communities, and this initiative is not only helping improve health and wellbeing but also bringing people together, reducing isolation and creating welcoming spaces for everyone.’
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