YMCA Bournemouth welcomes £63M to keep leisure centres afloat
But the Dorset charity is warning it's a short term solution
Last updated 17th Mar 2023
YMCA Bournemouth are welcoming £63m of government funding coming to keep leisure centres across the UK afloat.
But the charity which has facilities in Broadstone and Bournemouth is warning more long term support is needed.
Martin Stockley, Senior Operations Manager at YMCA Bournemouth said:
“While the government’s contribution is very much appreciated, in reality, it’s only a short-term solution as this investment figure is spread across the UK. Continual funding in specific areas of need is key – and community support initiatives can act as a powerful solution.
“The cost-of-living crisis has caused us to scrutinise how and why we’re spending money, so leisure centres may not be a top priority for some. But their benefits go so much further than simply providing exercise spaces.
"Many leisure centres, like The Junction Centre in Broadstone, act as a cornerstone of a community. They provide a space in which adults and children can enhance their physical and mental wellbeing, offering a range of activities where people can discover new interests and meet new people.
“The number of people impacted by the loss of such centres could be substantial. We have more than 5,000 adult members at The Junction Centre – though not all based in Broadstone, to put into context, that’s half the population of the area. On top of that, more than 900 children per week took part in our swimming academy last year.
“With rising costs impacting everyone, many leisure centres may not be able to survive solely on membership fees. This is why additional funding is crucial – not just from authorities, but also groups and individuals within communities.
“An investment in Leisure Centres today is an investment in all our tomorrows”