Swimming Pools and Gyms Covid-19 Closure 2020-11-05
2020-11-05
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about health and wellbeing issues arising from the closure of local facilities since the beginning of the first lockdown. The question focuses on financial viability for reopening such as the situation in Fleetwood where the swimming pool has been closed.
I am concerned about the impact on health and wellbeing of the closure of (a) swimming pools and (b) gyms during the covid-19 outbreak, particularly initiatives like “Healthier Fleetwood” show local efforts to address poorer health outcomes in my town but our swimming pool has been closed since the beginning of the first lockdown and was not reopened when restrictions allowed it to be.
Sport and physical activity are incredibly important, we made sure people could exercise during the height of lockdowns. Some facilities opened but some did not due to financial viability issues. The DCMS is working on a £100 million scheme with Sport England and MHCLG to help leisure centres.
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Assessment & feedback
Financial support for swimming pools in areas of deprivation was not specified or committed to.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP highlights the specific case of a closed swimming pool in Fleetwood that has remained shut since March due to financial viability concerns. The question seeks clarity on financial aid from the government.
Initiatives like “Healthier Fleetwood” show local efforts to address poorer health outcomes, but our swimming pool has been closed since the start of lockdown and was not reopened when restrictions allowed it to be. What conversations have you had with Treasury colleagues about financial support for swimming pools in areas of deprivation?
I understand the challenges facing many leisure facilities. Some have been able to open but are financially precarious. A £100 million scheme is being designed by DCMS, Sport England and MHCLG to help these facilities; details will be released soon.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific financial support for swimming pools in deprived areas was not addressed.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP notes the public desire for earlier lockdown measures, particularly from NHS workers who understand the need but stress that individual health is also crucial. She asks about plans for reopening closed gyms and swimming pools post-2 December.
Many people wanted earlier lockdowns, especially those in the NHS who know it can't alone make the country well; healthier lives are needed. With many gyms and pools shut since March as described by my hon. Friend, will you explain your plan for national wellbeing starting with what happens on 2 December?
Through Sport England and other bodies we provided over £200 million financial support during the crisis, with a plan for elite and grassroots sport reopening. Our intention is opening as many sports facilities possible; however, sacrifices are needed temporarily to control the virus.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific details on plans and actions for national wellbeing or precisely what happens on 2 December were not provided.
Response accuracy