Ferry Leisure Centre is celebrating the success of a scheme that has provided free access to its facilities for people experiencing homelessness in Oxford.
Oxford City Council and Serco have provided 30 individuals experiencing homelessness with a free six-month membership. The membership gave participants unlimited access to the gym, fitness classes and other facilities, with no requirement to provide a formal address and no restrictions on how often they could visit.
Funding for the membership came from the Leisure Community Fund which provides in-kind funding to individual and community groups to access services for free. This funding aims to support priority groups who have lower activity levels, and priority groups highlighted by the local authorities.
Participants in the six month programme were identified by Oxford City Council’s localities team during outreach and engagement work.
The positive impact of the scheme has been felt in many different ways. Participants said having access to our centre helped them become more active, whether by using the gym, taking part in group exercise classes or enjoying the free swimming offer for under-17s with their children.
Others spoke about how regular visits helped reduce feelings of isolation, establish a routine and improve their confidence. One participant said attending the gym gave them the confidence to apply for a part-time job, which they have since secured.
Comment
“People who are experiencing homelessness can often feel isolated from society and key services. This partnership with Serco Leisure not only helps people to stay active and healthy which is vital for us all, but it also helps them to feel a part of their local community and to take the next steps in their journey. Oxford City Council is proud to support this scheme and our local community.”
Councillor Mark Lygo, Cabinet Member for a Healthy, Fairer Oxford, Oxford City Council“The feedback we’re receiving from the scheme’s participants is inspiring. Like the parent who was thankful, as he can now take his children swimming, and ‘feel like a good dad. A proper dad.’ Then there’s a lady who told me that thanks to attending the gym, she’s feeling stronger and more confident in general. Her renewed confidence spurred her on to apply for a part-time job, which she has since successfully secured.
“We’re very grateful to Active Communities and Oxford City Council for funding this scheme. Their commitment to supporting people from every sector of society is an admirable one. This scheme truly shows the importance of leisure centres as community hubs, where everyone is welcome, accepted and empowered to improve their lives.”
Adam Godwin, Active Communities Manager, Serco Leisure
