'Quiet hour' proves a hit with families

Date: 
Monday, 9 September, 2019


'Quiet hour' swimming sessions will be offered on a regular basis after a successful pilot at a local leisure centre - aimed at making aquatic activities more accessible for people on the autistic spectrum.child swimming under water

Sessions will be held at the Leisuredrome, Bishopbriggs, from 3.30pm to 4.30pm on Saturdays - beginning this weekend (14 September 2019).

The initiative was successfully piloted - by East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture (EDLC) Trust - in July and August, with more than 130 people attending sessions and a deluge of positive feedback.

One mum said, "Thank you, thank you and thank you again ... we had fun, the atmosphere was so relaxed and the pool facilities were perfect. We will definitely be back.

"Please consider keeping it going. It’s so inclusive ... would be the first pool I know to offer a weekly ASN session at the pool and it’s such a brilliant service to give us."

Another mum added, "It was a safe, fun place for everyone to just be themselves. Thank you EDLC. I hope you can keep these sessions running."

Councillor Billy Hendry, Convener of the Council's Place, Neighbourhood & Corporate Assets Committee, said, "I am delighted the pilot sessions were a success and it's great to hear such positive feedback from families in East Dunbartonshire.

"Swimming is a great way to keep fit, but pools are often quite lively and noisy - potentially causing issues for people with autism and sensory impairments.

"Introducing a 'quiet hour' provides a more relaxed, calm atmosphere - helping to make people feel more comfortable and increasing accessibility."

Sandy Marshall, Chair of EDLC Trust, added, "The feedback from the pilot initiative has been excellent, with many parents getting in touch direct to thank us.

"I hope people continue to support the sessions and look forward to hearing about their success as we move forward."

"The Trust works closely with the Council to provide a range of services and facilities for people of all ages and abilities."

For more information, visit www.edlc.co.uk/sport-leisure/swimming or call 0141 777 3060. Please note, usual entry charges apply.

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