Stroke of Genius
| DWP back free swimming for over 60s DWP is backing a new £140 million fund to boost sport and fitness by offering free swimming for the over 60s. More than 10 million older people stand to benefit from the move, which will see Local Authorities across the country encouraged to open up nearly 1,600 publicly-owned swimming pools to people aged over 60. The fund is part of a drive by the Government to get two million people more active by the London Olympics in 2012. Secretary of State for Work and Pensions James Purnell said: 'DWP will contribute £22million over three years to encourage people aged over 60 to take up swimming sessions from April next year. We want to promote well-being in later life, and swimming has proven health benefits. It develops strength and stamina and has a low risk of injury.' Swimming is already a popular activity for the over 60s, with around seven per cent going swimming at least once a month. I hope, with this help, many more people will be able to take the plunge Find out more at UK Older People's Day on 1 October 2008 |
|
Sports & Activities