Press Release
"The Benefits Of Swimming Are Finally Being Recognised", Says The Uk’s Leading Independent Voice For Swimming
10 June 2008
The STA, the UK's leading independent voice for swimming teaching, has welcomed the news today that the Government plans a huge cash injection into swimming to enable the under-16’s and over-60’s to have free admission to public swimming pools.
Roger Millward, the STA’s Chief Executive says: "Swimming is recognised as the most popular form of sporting activity in the country, and furthermore it is one of only a few activities that can be enjoyed by all and that can help tackle important health and obesity issues. Furthermore, unlike other sports, learning to swim can actually help save your life. For far too long these benefits have gone unrecognised with the focus heavily balanced on the elite side of the sport; therefore the news of this investment today signifies a positive turning point for swimming – it is finally been recognised as an important activity that promotes health, fun and safety for people of all ages and abilities."
"However, before we get too carried away, we must ask the question of how these initiatives can be delivered. Public access to swimming pools is a big concern. For years public swimming pools have experienced extensive waiting lists and this problem is being further exasperated with many local pools being closed down for financial reasons – it is estimated that school pools in particular are being lost at a rate of 10% per year in many areas. Part of this cash injection includes a budget to rejuvenate and maintain pools, but will it be enough and how long will it take?"
"What is evident, is that in order to realistically achieve these objectives, the swimming industry as a whole needs to work in unison with Government, to ensure that everyone can benefit from what could be a potentially great initiative," concluded Roger.
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