This week, Glasgow City Council voted to remove free swimming from Glasgow’s children and elderly residents. 

The so-called ‘Glasgow Effect’ - where people from low income areas have significantly lower life expectancy than those from more affluent areas is compounded by poor health outcomes, rising inequality and levels of child poverty. That this gift to children in particular should be revoked by the council is a terrible reflection upon the legacy of the Commonwealth Games, hosted by our Dear Green Place just four short years ago, and a terrible indication of the value placed on exercise, health and well-being of the city’s residents.

Embedding a love of exercise, providing the means for that exercise, and giving families the ability to go swimming without having to worry about the cost has been a progressive and considered approach to tackling health inequality, loneliness, inclusion and obesity. 

Please sign this petition and encourage Glasgow City Council to reconsider this decision.