Following a competitive procurement process, Freedom Leisure has taken over the management of Belfairs Swim Centre, Shoeburyness Leisure Centre, and Southend Leisure & Tennis Centre on behalf of Southend-on-Sea City Council. This marks a new era of community-focused health and wellbeing initiatives in Southend.
FLAIR – Investing in Local Sporting Talent
FLAIR is designed to help promising sportspeople enhance their training by offering complimentary 12-month memberships to Freedom Leisure centres across Southend. Eligible athletes aged 11 and over can enjoy full access to top-class gyms, swimming pools, studios, courts, and group exercise classes, enabling them to train effectively and reach their full potential.
The scheme, which was originally aimed at supporting athletes competing at national levels, has now been expanded to include younger aspiring athletes, ensuring that the next generation of Southend’s sporting talent can thrive.
“At Freedom Leisure, we believe in the power of sport to inspire, unite, and transform lives. We are incredibly proud to introduce FLAIR to Southend and to support the UK’s most promising athletes in achieving their dreams. As a not-for-profit organisation, our focus is always on supporting the communities we serve, and that includes nurturing the next generation of sporting heroes.”
Ivan Horsfall Turner
“We are delighted to welcome Freedom Leisure to Southend. Their experience and passion for community wellbeing align perfectly with our vision for the city’s leisure services. The FLAIR programme is a fantastic opportunity for our talented athletes in Southend to thrive.”
Sharon Wheeler
Applications Now Open
Applications for the FLAIR 2025 programme are now open via the Freedom Leisure website until 31 August 2025. Applicants must provide evidence of their national ranking and relevant competition history. Successful athletes will benefit from free access to one of Freedom Leisure’s Southend centres.
For full details and to apply, visit: www.freedom-leisure.co.uk/flair2025/