Welcome news tonight that Medway Labour will be re-introducing free swimming for pensioners and under elevens that was cut by the Conservatives if elected in May 2011, and will back moves to increase exercise amongst young and old across the towns.
In what was one of the most regresssive and vindictive moves by the Conservatives, they scrapped the Free swimming initiative in June 2010. (see right)
Many Conservative Councillors locally stood up in full council to declare the scheme was too expensive and unnecessary. A snub to thousands of parents and pensioners who felt the scheme, promoted in the Labour manifesto in 2005, was a success. Many felt the Medway Conservatives had left them high and dry
They were right to feel angry.
Whilst Medway Tories were idly sitting by with the scissors it was reported that 121,000 people had benefited from the Policy with an increase of 180% in free swimming amongst the under 16s. A policy which aimed to challenge the rising obesity rates across Medway.
Given Medway has one of the strongest records for encouraging swimming in the UK and the fact we have the worst obesity indicators in the South East of England it is surely a no brainer to support the re-introduction of the scheme.
The Tories have flip-flopped on free swimming over the last 12 months and can not be trusted to introduce the scheme.
More widely then this, Medway Labour is looking for a culture shift in how the Council works with sport clubs and groups. Labour are looking to promote amateur sport and rugby teams as part of its attempt to re-engage and promote sport in the community. Many local sports teams lack the organisation to advertise and promote events and Labour wants to help these teams get ahead.
In addition, there is the potential for closer working partnerships with local independent providers. Many individuals use independent gyms who in other areas of the country sponser community sports events and fun days.
We all need to accept that Medway has a terrible obesity rate which poses a significant health time bomb on our community and simply sitting on the blue couches in gun wharf or even in our own homes, will not help us or others.
We need to act to change the mindset around promoting sport and community engagement around sport.
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