A new scheme is being launched in Cumbria to provide free Leisure Access Cards to children who are in care or who have learning difficulties and their carers and families.

Allerdale Borough Council is sponsoring the initiative to provide the cards, which cost £5 for 12 months, and allow the holder to access sports and leisure activities at the leisure centres operated by Carlisle Leisure on behalf of the council - including Cockermouth Leisure Centre, Keswick Leisure Pool and Workington Leisure Centre and Pools.

The children will also be able to use all of the other facilities operated by Carlisle leisure, which include The Pools, The Sands Centre, Sheepmount Stadium, Stony Holme Golf Course, Swifts Golf Course and Driving Range, Morton Pool and Fitness Centre and Trinity Leisure Centre.

Peter Haley, leisure partnership officer for Allerdale said: “We are very pleased to be able to offer this scheme through the Leisure Partnership with Carlisle Leisure and our work with Children’s Services.

“Improving services and opportunities for Children and Young People is a key issue for the Council and this scheme will provide many benefits by encouraging regular participation in sport and leisure activities.”

Martin Horne, business development manager for Carlisle Leisure added: “As part of our ongoing commitment to the residents of Allerdale we’re delighted to be able to offer this scheme and hope that it can help reduce the cost barrier to participation that we know can exist.”