free swim & gym eligibility requirements
Southwark free swim and gym
Southwark residents can use swimming and gym facilities, free of charge, in all of the council leisure centres at certain times as part of our free swim and gym scheme. We’re committed to investing in the health and wellbeing of all residents and want to make it easier for people to enjoy healthier and active lifestyles.
Eligibility
All Southwark residents are eligible for free swim and gym. You will need to show ID to register for the first time.
When is the offer available?
- Friday: 6am to 10pm (subject to programmes and timetables)
- Saturday: 2pm to 5.30pm (subject to programmes and timetables)
- Sunday: 2pm to 9pm (subject to programmes and timetables)
- Over-60s can take part in any Silver sessions free.
- Disabled residents can use all leisure centres, free of charge, seven days a week.
When is ID required?
Renewing
We require proof of entitlement at registration, renewal, and on an ad-hoc basis due to our commitment to upholding the integrity of our subscription policies and ensuring fair access to our facilities. By verifying entitlement at key points such as registration and renewal, we aim to maintain transparency and accountability in our membership processes.
Registering
You will need to provide two proofs of eligibility – one document from each, (1. Proof of Individual) and (2. Proof of Southwark Residency): Below is the list of appropriate ID to be provided by customers for the Southwark Free Swim and Gym scheme.
| Under-15's (Parents must register on behalf of the child) | 16+ | |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of individual | Passort | Passport |
| Medical Card/Certificate | Photo driving license | |
| Birth Certificate | National Identity Card | |
| Bank statement/ building society statement or passbook in child’s name | Other official forms of photo ID e.g bus pass, civil servant/government ID, emergency services ID. | |
| Credit union account in child’s name | National Insurance Card/letter | |
| Proof of Southwark residency | Any of the documents adjacent in the name of their parent/guardian | Council tax bill (within current year) |
| Valid in last 3 months: Utility bill, Bank statement, rent book/ statement | ||
| For customers living in halls of residence, residential hostels and similar communal accommodation, then a letter on official letterhead confirming residential status of the customer and signed by the residency manager is acceptable |
| If you: | You will need to provide: |
|---|---|
Receive Disability Living Allowance (Inc. for Children) at either:
| A copy of you or your child’s award letter showing receipt of Disability Living Allowance in the past 12 months |
| Receive Personal Independence Payments (PIP) at any rate | A copy of your award letter |
| Receive Attendance Allowance | A copy of your award letter |
| Are registered as deaf or use a hearing aid | A copy of the front page of your NHS battery book or a copy of your dispensing prescription from a private hearing aid supplier |
| Are registered as having a visual impairment | A copy of your Certificate of Visual Impairment (CVI) or BD8 Certificate for being registered blind or partially-sighted |
| Blue Badge parking permit holder | A copy of your award letter or Blue Badge parking permit |
| Young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities | A copy of your Statement of Educational Needs or Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan |