Technical Notes 2022, Issues 169 - Cost of Living Support Package - Free Swimming and Gym Sessions for School Pupils

Report by: 
Ann Davie, Depute Chief Executive
TN Number: 
169-22
Subject: 
Cost of Living Support Package - Free Swimming and Gym Sessions for School Pupils
Responsible Officer: 
Lauren Mirzai, Team Leader Communications and Engagement
Publication: 
This Technical Note will be published on the Council’s website following circulation to Members. Its contents may be disclosed or shared outwith the Council.
Details: 
  1. The purpose of this Technical Note is to update Members following the decision at Council on 22 September to provide a £2.1 million Support Package to address the current cost of living crisis.
  2. It was agreed that within this Support Package £500,000 would be allocated to East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture (EDLC) Trust to deliver free swimming and gym sessions for East Dunbartonshire pupils.
  3. Between November 2022 and March 2023, all primary school pupils in the area will be able to enjoy free swimming while secondary students aged 12-18 can access a range of free gym sessions.
  4. This programme will potentially benefit 17,291 pupils and will be available at all three leisure centres in the area - Allander, Kirkintilloch, and the Leisuredrome - from Tuesday 1 November.
  5. Primary pupils can turn up to swim from 1 November while secondary students will be asked to register and take part in a gym induction. Registration will open shortly and must be completed in person at any of the three centres.
  6. All existing 'Unlimited Swim' members of primary school age will be contacted and will benefit from no subscription payments during the term of this initiative. The same applies for any secondary students who are already gym members.
  7. An FAQ page on the EDLC website can be found for any parent/carer or pupil that wants to find out more information.
  8. Communications will be issued including a press release, information on both the Council and EDLC websites, and posts on social media.
Distribution List: 
All Elected Members, Corporate Management Team, Executive Officers, HSCP Management Team, Corporate Communications, General Manager and EDLCT