The charitable and not‑for‑profit trust, which manages 29 leisure centres across Wales, was awarded the highest quality mark available for delivering the Learn to Swim Wales programme. The Gold Accreditation recognises excellence in governance, sustainability and effectiveness in swimming education, going beyond basic industry standards and safeguarding guidelines.
A milestone for Swansea
Freedom Leisure manages Swansea’s leisure centres on behalf of the city council and currently supports around 4,000 swimmers through its Learn to Swim programme. The scheme is delivered by a highly skilled team of teachers, offering lessons to both children and adults.
Chief Executive Officer Ivan Horsfall Turner said the award was a proud moment:
“We are delighted to have been Gold Accredited by Swim Wales for our Learn to Swim programme and extremely proud to be the first leisure operator in Wales to have achieved this accolade.”
He added that the partnership with Swim Wales helps provide children and adults with confidence in the water, particularly important in coastal areas such as Swansea.
Recognition from Swim Wales
Swim Wales Chief Executive Officer Fergus Feeney praised the achievement:
“This distinction demonstrates a sustained commitment to excellence in swimming education, ensuring that children and adults across Swansea have access to the highest standard of opportunities to acquire a vital life skill.”
Learn to Swim Manager Hanna Guise added that Freedom Leisure had shown “just how committed they are to providing their learners with the highest quality learn to swim offer,” setting a benchmark for other providers.
Local impact
Cllr Andrew Stevens, Cabinet Member for Environment & Infrastructure, said the award reflected the quality and dedication of the team:
“It’s reassuring to know that our leisure centres – run on behalf of the council by Freedom Leisure – are providing such high‑quality tuition that is recognised nationally.”
He added that the recognition highlighted the strength of the partnership between Swansea Council and Freedom Leisure, delivering opportunities that benefit residents of all ages.
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