Free Swimming Initiative

From September 1, there will be changes to the 60+ Free Swimming programme.

The free-swimming initiative has been funded by the Welsh Government since it began in 2003. Due to a reduction in the budget allocation and a desire to attract more participants, we need to adjust the offer. This will provide greater flexibility on when people attend.

Starting September 1, customers will have access to ALL lane and public swimming sessions for up to 9 sessions per month for free (not restricted to only 60+ swim sessions). This means approximately two free swims per week.

Free Kids Swimming available at Carmarthen Leisure Centre; Canolfan Pentre Awel; Amman Valley Leisure Centre and Llandovery Leisure Centre as follows:

This session is a relaxed, gentle and inclusive adult only session in a safe, supportive and friendly environment.

Who is the session suitable for? Anyone living with age related memory loss, anyone looking to enjoy low impact exercise to help improve stability, balance, flexibility and mood. Carers very welcome.

What you need to know about swimming and dementia

• Swimming can offer a sense of mental wellbeing, something which cannot be easily measured but is often anecdotally mentioned by participants.
• It clears the mind, encourages positivity and builds a sense of self-worth.
• Swimming can soothe agitation and reduce anxiety, relax the body, supporting the body in a relatively weightless environment.
• Leisure Centres can also be meeting points, which can help reduce loneliness, introduce you to friends and offer opportunities to socialise.

These four tips are for any swimmer living with dementia, or for your carer.

1. You can ask for a familiarisation visit at your local pool where you wish to swim. This will allow you, or your carer, to ask all the questions you need to.
2. Don’t think that because of a diagnosis you have to stop doing activities you enjoy or trying new things.
3. If you can’t be active because of joint pain, take part in swimming - it’s a low impact form of activity, so it’s easy on your joints.
4. Do seek the advice of a medical professional if you have any concerns.

Those aged 60+ and their carers go free.

The Armed Forces Card offers free access to swimming sessions across our leisure centres.

This initiative is part of our commitment to promoting health, wellbeing, and active lifestyles within the Armed Forces community.

To get started, simply register and bring your valid Armed Forces Card with you on your first visit. This is required to verify and activate your account.

Once your account has been verified, you’ll be able to enjoy swimming sessions as part of this benefit.