Research carried out by Swim England shows that aquatic activity generates £2.4billion of social value and we are keen to do even more to maximise the benefits of public sport and leisure services.
That requires investment in building the greener pools of the future and decarbonising existing pools.
But it is about more than that. We believe that with the right leadership, partnerships, coordination and investment our nation’s pools can deliver significantly more social, economic and environmental benefits for the whole of society, supporting the long-term health and success of the nation.
That’s why we’re saying don’t put a cap on swimming
Financial pressures on local councils, increased costs and ageing pools mean many facilities are under threat. More than 1,000 publicly accessible pools have closed since 2010 and around 1,500 are in excess of 40 years old and coming towards the end of their ‘shelf life’.
To fully realise the potential of swimming and to further reduce the pressures on the NHS and social care network, we need to ensure we have sustainable pools with strong links to local health systems and structures.
Regular swimming is associated with a range of health benefits, with the research showing that 78,500 cases of ill health were prevented in 2022 alone. With an aging population and ill health costing the economy billions, it has never been more important to support the facilities that enable people to be active and live healthier and happier lives.
Millions of people use our facilities each year and enjoy the benefits that regular swimming brings to their physical and mental health. Swimming is fun for people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds and we want even more people to enjoy water in a safe environment.
Swimming is an essential life skill for people of all ages, in particular children – 92% of whom say they like or love swimming, whilst 4.5million young people saying they would like to swim more often.
The campaign is calling on Government to ensure the country has a network of environmentally sustainable pools to support all the activities and sports that rely on them, as well as increasing access to outdoor swimming opportunities.
Click here to find out more or watch the video below: