Free Leisure Centre Membership for Foster Children and Care Leavers Extended to 2025/26

Strategic Insights -

Children in foster care and care leavers up to the age of 25 are being offered free membership of local leisure centres across West Devon and South Hams. The initiative, initially introduced in 2024, has been extended for a further two years, allowing young people to access free swimming, gym, and soft play facilities. The scheme is funded by SHDC and WDBC and supported by Devon County Council's Children and Young People Team. Foster carers and young people can sign up by submitting a letter and application, giving them access to these vital leisure facilities.

Key Takeaways:

  • The free leisure centre membership initiative is open to children in foster care and care leavers up to the age of 25.
  • The scheme is a partnership between West Devon and South Hams Councils, Fusion Lifestyle, and Devon County Council.
  • The initiative aims to encourage healthy and active lifestyles among young people.
  • Foster carers and young people can sign up by submitting a letter and application.
  • The scheme has been extended for a further two years, from 2024 to 2025/26.
  • The Meadowlands leisure centre in Tavistock and Parklands centre in Okehampton are among the facilities participating in the initiative.
  • A foster carer in Tavistock has praised the scheme for promoting independence and a love of exercise among young people.

Statistics:

  • The scheme is open to children in foster care and care leavers up to the age of 25.
  • The initiative aims to promote healthy and active lifestyles among young people.
  • The scheme is funded by SHDC and WDBC and supported by Devon County Council's Children and Young People Team.
  • The Meadowlands leisure centre in Tavistock and Parklands centre in Okehampton are participating facilities.
  • 2 WDBC and SHDC will fund the initiative for two years.
  • Throughout 2025/26 the initiative will provide free leisure centre memberships.

Sources:

  • "Children in foster care and care leavers up to the age of 25 are being offered free membership of local leisure centres." (Okehampton Today)
  • "The initiative, initially introduced in early 2024 -- is now rolling out again for a further two years." (Okehampton Today)
  • "Fusion teams across Devon and South Hams are calling on all social workers in the area to spread the word and sign up." (Okehampton Today)
  • "Anyone interested should contact Clare Bill at clare.bill@fusion-lifestyle.com" (Okehampton Today)