Held every Thursday from 9am to 10am, the instructor-led sessions are specifically designed for individuals living with dementia, Alzheimer’s or similar neurological conditions. Delivered by experienced Freedom Leisure instructor Dawn, the sessions provide a safe, supportive and welcoming environment, enabling participants to stay active while building confidence in the water. The sessions are offered free of charge to users and their carers, ensuring accessibility for those who can benefit most.
The programme has quickly become a valued part of the community, offering not only physical activity but also vital social interaction and emotional support for both participants and their carers.
The sessions exemplify Freedom Leisure’s aim to create inclusive opportunities that support both physical and mental wellbeing, especially for those living with long-term health conditions.
Participants and their families have shared powerful feedback about the impact of the sessions:
Life changing for my husband with dementia. He’s doing exercise he’s not done for years and looks forward to it every week – it’s the highlight of his week. He is able to be confident in a secure and safe place with a qualified instructor on hand, full of suggestions to help him swim safely. It gives him an adrenaline boost. As his partner, it’s also a lovely place to meet other people in a social setting and to have a coffee together after. It improves his cognitive awareness.
Patty
He is very keen to come each week. It’s brilliant – he loves it. It’s helping him with different kinds of exercises, building his confidence and offering a great social aspect for meeting others.
Ann
We are incredibly proud of the positive impact our Dementia-Friendly Swimming Sessions are having at Arc Leisure, Matlock. These sessions not only support physical health, but also provide a safe and welcoming environment where people can rebuild confidence, connect with others and enjoy meaningful activity. The feedback from participants and their families has been truly inspiring, and we remain committed to expanding opportunities like this within our communities.
Alistair Gould
Freedom Leisure continues to invest in programmes that promote healthier, happier communities with initiatives like this demonstrating the life-changing benefits of accessible, inclusive activities.
To find out more please contact Arc Leisure on 01629 581322 or simply turn up on Thursdays, no need to book.