Children to swim for free after school to save on heating costs

The scheme will run from 31 October to 31 March

Children will be able to swim for free after school at the island's sport centre this winter as part of the government's warm spaces scheme.

Pupils will not be charged to swim on weekdays at the National Sports Centre in Douglas between 16:30 and 19:00.

The five-month scheme aims to help families with the cost of living.

Education minister Julie Edge said it means children will have a place to "exercise, socialise and get a hot shower" this winter.

She added it should "lessen the burden of home energy costs for their families".

One parent or guardian will also be allowed to join a primary school child for free at the centre from 31 October.

The scheme is part of the Manx government's Community Warm Spaces Fund set up to offer those worried about heating bills a warm space to spend time.

It is part of a package of support measures approved by Tynwald to help people with rising costs, which includes a six-month freeze on electricity prices.

Ms Edge said the access to the pool will also help young people who have fallen behind with swimming which she said was a "trend since the pandemic".

At weekends and in school holidays, children and their parents will still need to pay to swim.