Council offers food bank users free access to leisure centres

People using food banks are being offered free leisure activities thanks to an innovative local partnership aiming to boost the health and fitness of those most in need.

Cheltenham Borough Council’s #FeedCheltenham activity pass enables people who use local food banks and pantries to gain access to swimming sessions, gyms and health clubs, group exercise classes and soft play sessions.

The pass is supported by the NHS and run by the Borough Council, Feed Cheltenham Network and Cheltenham Trust. It gives people access to 12 free activities, in addition to a year of discounted access to pay-as-you-go activities.

Cheltenham Borough Council said the card has been a “great success” with more than 150 active users.