Dorset Council residents under the age of 16 are able to access free swimming from 17th December to the 1st of January in many of the leisure centres across the county.
This opportunity follows on from the success of the free swimming available over this years summer holiday that saw almost 30,000 sessions taken up by Dorset children. Dorset council are delighted to be able to provide this same opportunity once more ensure all families have access to physical and social holiday activities.
There is no restriction to the number of times children and young people can access this offer however, there will be a requirement to provide proof of living in the Dorset Council area. Some sites may need to limit the number of times an individual can attend a session per day to ensure that all young people get a chance to enjoy time in the pools.
Cllr Andrew Parry, Portfolio Holder for Children, Education and Early Help said: ‘We are delighted to have the opportunity to provide swimming to children and young people over this years school holidays. It is an important and fun way for children and young people to have access to enriching physical activities and increase their confidence in and around the water. A huge thank you to the swimming pools and leisure centres participating, who have made their facilities available for our families.’
The following venues are offering this promotion:
1610 Dorchester Sports Centre – 01305 858400
Weymouth Swimming Pool – 01305 774373
Purbeck Sports Centre, Wareham – 01929 500000
Ferndown Leisure Centre – 01202 877468
Queen Elizabeth Leisure Centre, Wimborne – 01202 888208
Blandford Leisure Centre – 01258 455566
RiversMeet, Gillingham – 01747 834013
Some of the locations require you to book in advance, please contact the swimming pool before travelling to avoid any disappointment. The offer does not extend to a free adult swim when accompanying children.
Families who are looking for a wider range of holiday activities can also take part in Winter in Dorset, a wide and vibrant collection of enriching activities that all include a nutritious meal. Young people who are eligible for benefit-related Free school meals, can access all Winter in Dorset free of charge.
If you have any questions regarding the free swimming offer or Winter in Dorset, please contact holidayactivities@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk