Teesside Pools Recognized for Enhanced Accessibility Efforts
Tees Active has received an award for improving access to swimming pools for those with health conditions
Teesside, England, Tees Active, Swimming, Accessibility, Health
Teesside: Tees Active, the group that runs leisure facilities in partnership with Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, just snagged Swim England’s ‘Water Wellbeing’ standard. Pretty cool, right?
This award is all about making community pools better for health and wellness. They’ve put in some serious work at places like Billingham Forum and Thornaby Pool to make them more welcoming.
The focus is on helping folks with long-term health issues enjoy swimming. Over 70 staff members got trained to understand disabilities better, which is a big step forward.
They’ve also ramped up their ‘adult learn to swim’ programs, offering at least two sessions a week at each pool. It’s part of their ‘Swim More’ and ‘Swim Well’ initiatives.
All swim teachers are now qualified to assist swimmers with health conditions, and the frontline staff have been trained to provide excellent service to disabled customers.
Leon Jones, the Managing Director, said this award shows their commitment to making leisure activities accessible for everyone in the borough.
Councillor Steve Nelson echoed that sentiment, expressing delight in the investment in local leisure facilities. He emphasized the importance of access for everyone, especially those with health challenges.
Matthew Martin from Swim England praised the Tees Active team for their dedication to making their facilities more inclusive. He’s excited to see how these changes will benefit the community.
Oh, and by the way, this award comes right after Tees Active won a silver award in the school swimming category at the Swim England National Awards in Birmingham. Talk about a double win!