Free swimming and lessons
launched through
£5m We Are Wychavon Support Fund
Date published: 30 July 2026
Free swimming is on offer to Wychavon residents under 16 and over 60 as the first scheme launches under the £5 million We Are Wychavon Support Fund.
The scheme starts on Saturday, 1 August and gives eligible residents free access to general public swimming sessions at Evesham and Pershore Leisure Centres. Droitwich Spa Leisure Centre will be included once the building fully reopens on 1 September following a multi-million-pound upgrade, but residents can register in advance.
Free swimming lessons are also being funded through the scheme for adult beginners, SEN, non-swimmers aged eight and over, Grade I and young children aged from four months to four years.
To register for free swimming or swimming lessons, residents simply need to provide proof of age and residency for themselves or their children at their chosen leisure centre. Once registered, they will be able to access all general public swimming sessions free of charge. Splash Hour and Droitwich Spa Lido are not included.
As well as reducing the cost of keeping active, the scheme will improve access to safe, supervised swimming pools and give residents of all ages the opportunity to learn a vital life skill.
The We Are Wychavon Support Fund will benefit residents, families, businesses and community groups across the district through investment in four key areas of wellbeing, business, families and young people, and sustainable communities.
Other schemes launching over the coming months include a discounted parking offer, reduced fares for the Worcestershire On Demand bus, support to tackle youth unemployment, investment in apprenticeships and help for community groups through councillor grants. These schemes are still being finalised and will be announced through Wychavon's e-newsletter, social media channels, website and local media.
Cllr Richard Morris, Leader of Wychavon, said: “Swimming is one of the few activities that can benefit people throughout every stage of life. It helps children develop confidence and a vital life skill, supports adults to stay active and improves physical and mental wellbeing, while helping older people stay fit and independent.
"That's why we're proud to make this the first scheme to launch through the We Are Wychavon Support Fund. The fund is only possible because of Wychavon’s careful financial management of taxpayers’ money over the years, allowing us to invest in schemes directly benefitting our residents. That's an approach we'll continue to take into the new South Worcestershire Council."
Nigel Grundy, Managing Director of Wychavon Leisure, said: "We're delighted to be working with Wychavon District Council to make swimming more accessible for local residents. Whether it's helping a child gain confidence in the water, supporting an adult to learn to swim for the first time, or encouraging people to stay active later in life, this scheme removes cost as a barrier and opens up opportunities for everyone. We look forward to welcoming more families and residents through our doors and helping them enjoy the many physical, mental and social benefits that swimming can bring."
Visit www.wychavon.gov.uk/support-fund to find out more.