Parkside Pools and Gym welcomes over 150 refugees and asylum seekers

GLL operated leisure centres, sports facilities, pools and gyms across the UK recently launched a new initiative that offering refugees and asylum seekers a free Better Health Centre membership or a lesson or course membership, for a fixed three-month period.

The scheme, which is open to international refugees who have been granted refugee or asylum status by the UK Government. The initiative has been structured to be as simple as possible, recognising the challenges already faced by this vulnerable group.  

Further information on the scheme, including how to apply for a supported membership, is available here.

We know the huge benefits that all forms of exercise can have our physical and mental well-being and hope that this initiative will play a small part in making refugees’ experience of life in the UK a positive one. Since the scheme began in June 2022, Parkside Pools and Gym have been able to support over 150 people with supported memberships and swimming lessons. 

As well as the supporting the community with memberships and swimming lessons, Parkside Pools and Gym are also proud to be offering opportunities for employment and training to those in need. Two new recruits at the swimming pool have recently completed qualifications in pool lifeguarding and are starting to support the team with enquiries and referrals for the supported membership scheme.

As a non-profit charitable social enterprise, GLL are committed to delivering a better quality of fitness and leisure for everyone by providing access to great community facilities, like Parkside Pool and Gym.