| answer text |
<p>We recognise the importance of ensuring public access to indoor and outdoor pools
and that swimming is a great way for people of all ages to stay fit and healthy. The
responsibility of providing this access lies at Local Authority level, and the government
continues to encourage Local Authorities to support swimming facilities.</p><p>We
recognise the impact rising energy prices will have on organisations of all sizes,
including on providers of indoor leisure facilities. In September the government announced
the Energy Bill Relief Scheme, under which businesses and other non-domestic energy
users (including leisure centres and swimming pools) will be offered support.</p><p>After
an initial 6 months of the scheme, the government will provide ongoing focused support
for vulnerable industries. There will be a review in 3 months' time to consider where
this should be targeted to make sure those most in need get support.</p><p>Sport England
has invested £9,619,264 in swimming and diving projects since April 2019, which includes
£6,260,502 to Swim England. This is in addition to the £100 million National Leisure
Recovery Fund, which supported the reopening of local authority swimming pools throughout
the country after the pandemic.</p>
|
|
