Since 2010, the nation has lost 450 swimming pools, with poorer areas losing the most. Many of our pools are under threat due to shrinking council budgets, rising costs and ageing pools. And outdoor swimming is not without its own set of issues, with concerns around sewage pollution and access. That’s why we are supporting Swim England’s campaign to fight for our pools and for better access to cleaner water to swim in. 

Swimming should be at the heart of the nation’s health and fitness – as swimmers ourselves we know that as well as being an essential life skill it is also essential for our mental and physical wellbeing. Access to affordable pools and safe and sewage-free open water should be available to all. Every child and adult in England should have the opportunity to be able to swim and be safe in, on and around the water. You can help achieve these goals by becoming a Swim England Supporter from just £15 a year. Let’s fight for our water!

Ella Foote, Editor

How you can help make a difference

Swim England continues to lobby the government on the issues facing outdoor swimmers as well as fighting for funding for pools across the country.

You can help by becoming a valued Swim England Supporter and giving £15 a year. Income generated from the Supporter subscription helps to fund Swim England’s campaigning and lobbying efforts. 

In recent years Swim England Supporters have helped:

• Keep the issue of water quality on the political agenda, maintaining pressure on government and polluters to go further and faster to tackle this problem.
• Make the case for greater access to outdoor swimming opportunities, including through new designated bathing waters.
• Secure over £60 million to help decarbonise swimming pools in England and help with rising costs.
• Get additional funding for primary school sport through the PE and school sport premium.

Save Our Pools!

In this month’s Back To Pool issue of Outdoor Swimmer we investigate why it’s more important than ever to fight for your local swimming pool. 

Why become a Swim England Supporter?

• Join the fight for cleaner waters and greater access to outdoor blue spaces.
• Help fund Swim England’s work to raise awareness of the issues that face aquatic sports and facilities.
• Enjoy great benefits including a welcome gift, partner discounts and prize draws.

How the campaign has made a difference so far

In recent years Swim England Supporters have helped:

• Keep the issue of water quality on the political agenda, maintaining pressure on government and polluters to go further and faster to tackle this problem.
• Make the case for greater access to outdoor swimming opportunities, including through new designated bathing waters.
• Secure over £60 million to help decarbonise swimming pools in England and help with rising costs.
• Get additional funding for primary school sport through the PE and school sport premium.

Let’s keep the pressure up. Become a Swim England Supporter now and help fight for our pools and open water.