At a time when many residents are facing increased financial pressures from rising energy bills to the cost of food and other essentials, Tower Hamlets Council has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the health and wellbeing of the community.
While leisure centres across the country are closing, Tower Hamlets is taking a different approach by continuing to invest in its leisure services.
As part of this commitment, the council has announced a freeze on all activity and membership fees at Be Well leisure centres for the next financial year 2025-26. To support local communities, this freeze applies to all users within the borough.
This move is aimed at keeping services affordable and accessible for all residents, particularly at a time when access to physical and mental health support is increasingly vital.
This is in addition to existing initiatives, including free swimming for women and girls aged 16 and over, and for men aged 55 and over. These targeted offerings are designed to remove barriers and encourage greater participation in regular physical activity.
New programmes are also being introduced to support residents with long-term health conditions and disabilities, further expanding access to inclusive and tailored services.
Be Well offers a range of benefits for residents, including:
- Free swimming for women and girls aged 16 and over and men aged 55 and over.
- Access to six leisure centres under a single membership.
- Upgraded fitness equipment and class offerings.
- A variety of health and wellbeing programmes.
- Facility improvements such as the refurbished spa at York Hall, upcoming upgraded pitches at Mile End, women’s only gym expansions at Poplar Baths and York Hall and creche facilities across Mile End, Tiller and Poplar Baths.
Cllr Mohammed Kamrul Hussain, Cabinet Member for Culture and Recreation, said:
"By maintaining affordable, inclusive leisure services, we are placing the wellbeing of our residents at the centre of our priorities.
“Accessing these services is not just about health and wellbeing, it’s also about developing skills and connecting with others – a healthier Tower Hamlets is a stronger Tower Hamlets.
"Be Well is designed to improve access for those who traditionally face barriers to participation.
“With high levels of long-term health conditions and childhood obesity in the borough, investing in leisure services is a key part of our strategy to reduce health inequalities and improve outcomes for our residents."
Be Well adopts a holistic approach to health and wellbeing, with a particular focus on increasing access and participation among women and girls, older adults, and residents living with or at risk of long-term health conditions.
For more information about memberships, programmes and initiatives, visit www.be-well.org.uk
Posted on Wednesday 16th April 2025