Free and discounted exercise and swimming classes in Lewisham
- Contributor
- Mar 26
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 27
If you’re a Lewisham resident, you could be eligible for free or discounted access to exercise and swimming classes through the Lewisham Be Active Scheme. This initiative helps residents stay fit and healthy by providing affordable access to local leisure centres and activities. Whether you’re on benefits, have a disability, are a carer, or over 60, you may qualify for a range of discounts and free sessions.
Who can join the Be Active scheme?
You can join the Be Active scheme if you are a Lewisham resident, aged 16 or over, and meet at least one of the following criteria:
1. You receive certain benefits
If you receive any of the following, you are eligible for the scheme:
Council tax reduction
Housing benefit or universal credit
Tax credits (excluding child tax credits)
Income support
Jobseeker's allowance
Employment and support allowance
Benefits:
Automatic casual membership at all Lewisham leisure centres
25% off the cost of most activities
2. You have a disability
You’re eligible if any of these apply:
You hold a Blue Badge
You have a disability Freedom Pass
You receive Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Attendance Allowance, or Personal Independence Payments (PIP)
Benefits:
Automatic casual membership at all Lewisham leisure centres
Free swimming
Free use of the gym (including a group induction)
Free use of the athletic track
25% off most activities
3. You are a carer
Carers, whether unpaid or professional, can sign up for the Be Active scheme if they:
Care for a disabled adult who lives in the borough
Care for a disabled child who lives in the borough and is a library member
4. Children in care
Children in foster care or other care settings may be eligible. Guardians can contact Lewisham Community Services for more information.
5. You’re over 60
If you’re aged 60 or over, you can apply for the Be Active membership, which offers free or discounted access to local leisure centres.
Senior (60+) Membership:
£29.95 per month (prepaid)
Includes access to the gym, swimming pools, and fitness classes at Glass Mill Leisure Centre, Forest Hill Pools, Wavelengths Leisure Centre, and Bellingham Leisure & Lifestyle Centre
7-day priority booking for specified activities
No annual contract – can be cancelled with four weeks' notice
6. You are a student
If you are in full-time education and live or study in the London Borough of Lewisham, you are eligible for a Be Active membership.
Participating leisure centres
You can use your Be Active membership at any of the following centres:
Forest Hill Pools – Dartmouth Road, Forest Hill, SE23 2HZ
Glass Mill Leisure Centre – 41 Loampit Vale, SE13 7FT
Wavelengths Leisure Centre – Giffin Street, Deptford, SE8 4RJ
Bellingham Leisure & Lifestyle Centre – 5 Randlesdown Road, SE6 3BT
How to apply
To apply for a Be Active membership, you’ll need to provide proof of eligibility (such as a benefits letter or ID).
For more details or to check your eligibility, contact Parks & Leisure Community Services at sportandleisure@lewisham.gov.uk or visit the Lewisham Council web page.
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