Leisure services for children with disabilities and their families
Leisure centres in Gateshead
Birtley Leisure Centre continues is operated collaboratively by Gateshead Council and Lifestyle Fitness.
Blaydon, Dunston and Heworth leisure centres, and Gateshead International Stadium are managed by GLL, under the name Better.
- All Better leisure centres in Gateshead (opens new window)
- Blaydon Leisure Centre (opens new window)
- Dunston Leisure Centre (opens new window)
- Heworth Leisure Centre (opens new window)
- Gateshead International Stadium (opens new window)
Children with additional needs
At the Better leisure centres, children with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND) can benefit from free casual swimming, gym use and fitness classes (age restrictions apply), as well as 50% discount on swimming lessons. The siblings and parents or guardians of the child will pay the lowest concession price for activities.
The offer is also enhanced for children with SEND by extending access to the above rates at the Better leisure centres in Newcastle.
Carers
Carers will continue to access facilities for free if they are there to support another customer. This could include a second carer if required.
Better SEND swimming lessons
Better offers dedicated swimming sessions for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Although swimmers with SEND are always welcome, these sessions are less busy and tailored for children with SEND and their families to swim in a relaxed and friendly environment.
Find out more about the SEND swimming sessions
Birtley Leisure Centre
At Birtley Leisure children with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND) can benefit from fitness classes (age restrictions apply) The siblings and parents or guardians of the child will pay the lowest concession price for activities.
SEND leisure pass
To apply for the SEND leisure pass, families must first apply to Gateshead Council for a Max Card. To apply for the SEND leisure pass, please visit one of Gateshead Better leisure centres and take your Max Card along with one of the following forms of proof of eligibility:
- Letter sent with Max card
- proof of your benefits
- child or young person's Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)
- a letter from paediatrician, GP, or social worker