“Enjoy the fun and swim free of charge at a swimming pool near you”
In 2003 the Welsh Government launched a Wales-wide scheme offering free swimming for the over 60s, and 16 & under (during school holidays). Most recently a further addition to this provision has been made meaning that members of the Armed Forces and Veterans (based on certain eligibility) can now access free swimming at the Better Maindy Centre.
The Free Swimming Scheme is aimed at promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. To apply to take part in the free swimming initiative, pick up an application form at any of the seven participating Better Swimming Pools.
16 & Under
You can enjoy free swimming during school holidays; centres also run fun, structured aquatic activities such as mini polo, float fun, pool parties, snorkelling and lifesaving. Times will vary at each centre, so please check. To apply for a junior free swim card collect from your local Better Centre. Please note: a parent/guardian signature is required and inset days are not part of the Free Swimming Initiative.
Over 60’s
Over-60s are able to access free recreational swimming during public swimming sessions subject to availability. Other activities include Aqua Fit and Learning to swim, for more information please contact your nearest Better leisure centre.
To apply for your free swim card please collect from your local Better leisure centre. When applying to join the scheme you will need to provide proof of your age by providing one of the following:
- bus pass
- driver’s licence
- pension book
- passport
- birth certificate
- marriage certificate
NB: Please check with your doctor before beginning any activity, especially if you have chronic back, joint, heart, or inner-ear problems
Armed Forces (AFFS)
Free swimming for Armed Forces and veterans is the latest initiative to be launched by the Welsh Government as part of its Package of Support for the Armed Forces Community. Members of the Armed Forces and Veterans are eligible for free swimming using their Defence Privilege Card which is available through the Ministry of Defence’s Defence Discount Service.
Maindy Centre is the only pool offering the scheme in Cardiff and is on offer to Veterans and Armed Forces Personnel on leave and who reside in Wales. The scheme gives access for all ‘adult recreational swimming’ as timetabled at Maindy Centre. Note: Veterans over the age of 60 will automatically qualify for the Welsh Government 60+ Free Swimming initiative scheme.
To access the Armed Forces Free Swimming Scheme (AFFS) Veterans and Armed Forces Personnel MUST hold valid ‘MOD Defence Privilege Card’. On production of the MOD Privilege Card you will be asked to complete the Councils AFFS application form and you will be issued with your Better Cardiff AFFS card.
Please note:
- Only Better Cardiff AFFS cards can be used in Cardiff, cards or memberships from other Welsh Authorities are not valid, a new application form will need to be completed.
- A replacement Better Cardiff AFFS card will charged at £3.00
For further information on times and activities please contact your nearest Better Centre.
