Link4Life has taken the decision to introduce free swimming in its pools for all under 5s from 1st December 2012.  

 This will be valid in any public swimming session, without an instructor, and will save parents or carers 60p per child every time they swim, or 40p for Passport to Leisure members.

 The 2011 Census data shows that there are estimated to be 14,800 0-4 year olds in the borough of Rochdale. The 2011 Health Profile for this borough also estimated that 19% of 9 year olds in Year 6 at school are classified as obese.

 Health guidelines now recommend that physical activity should be encouraged from birth with parent and baby swim sessions being useful not only in building social and emotional bonds but also in encouraging infants to use their muscles and develop motor skills.

 By the time a child is capable of walking unaided it is recommended that they should be physically active for at least 180 minutes (3 hours) spread throughout the day.

 Said Cabinet Member for Leisure & Culture, Councillor Jacquie Beswick, "£34 million has been invested in new leisure and arts facilities in the borough in the five years since Link4Life was launched. It has never been a better time to swim in the borough of Rochdale with child friendly new swimming pools in Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale including family changing facilities and easy access to buildings and pools for buggy users."

 There were 131,027 recorded swims in Link4Life pools in 2011-12. Despite growth in the number of adults and 5-11s swims, the overall percentage of swims by 0-4s decreased compared with the year before.  

 Link4Life Chair of Trustees, Clint Street said, "There are clear health benefits for young children from early exercise and with the pressure on family budgets it is hoped that the introduction of free swimming for under 5s will encourage more families to come swimming together. It is great news that, even at this time of budget constraints, Link4Life is able to introduce this new initiative here in the borough of Rochdale."

 The loss of income from swimming admissions will be absorbed within Link4Life's budgets. Residents who are receiving a means tested benefit – such as Council Tax benefit – remain eligible for the Passport to Leisure scheme. Adults and children over 5 swim for approximately half price under this scheme.