Armed forces personnel and veterans will be able to enjoy swimming for free under a new scheme.
The Welsh Government is providing up to £100,000 over two years to the Welsh Local Government Association to ensure all councils in Wales have a local scheme in place offering free swimming for anyone currently serving or who has served in the Armed Forces.
The Deputy Minister for Culture Sport and Tourism, Ken Skates and Public Services Minister, Leighton Andrews announced the scheme at Risca Leisure Centre on Wednesday, February 3
The Deputy Minister said: “I am delighted that through our partnership with local government we are able to offer this support to those serving in the Armed Forces and our veterans, in recognition of their immense service to our country.”
Public Services Minister, Leighton Andrews added: “I’m pleased to announce this extension to our Package of Support. We are providing funding to Local Authorities to help them provide free swimming for the Armed Forces and veterans. This demonstrates again, our commitment to supporting the Armed Forces Community in Wales.”
Over recent years, the Welsh Government has strengthened its support for the Armed Forces community, including investing in a unique NHS service for Veterans in Wales and extending council tax relief.
Councillor Keith Reynolds, Leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council said: “I am delighted that Caerphilly was chosen as a host venue to launch Welsh Governments Armed Forces Free Swimming Wales initiative. I think it is a fantastic that Welsh Government are supporting local authorities to roll out this scheme Wales wide.”