Purpose

As part of Tendring District Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting local talent and promoting health and wellbeing, we are pleased to introduce the Aspiring Athletes Membership Scheme. This initiative is designed to support today’s and tomorrow’s athletes from across the district by providing them with complimentary access to our leisure centre facilities.
Scheme Overview:
The scheme will be open to young athletes who are identified and referred by local sports clubs, schools, and community organisations through an application process. Successful applicants will receive a free membership to Tendring District Council’s leisure centres, enabling access to training facilities, fitness classes, and swimming pools. A total n umber of up to 30 will be offered out annually and this number will be reviewed annually with the Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Open Space.
The concurrence letter elaborates on the key objectives, outlines the application and selection process, and specifies the expected outcomes.

Decision

The Portfolio Holder for Leisure

Alternative options considered

Alternative options considered included offering discounted rather than complimentary memberships, but this was rejected as it could still pose a financial barrier for some young athletes and undermine the scheme’s inclusivity goals. Partnering with private gyms was also explored but dismissed due to concerns over safeguarding, quality control, and reduced visibility of athlete development. One-off grants or equipment vouchers were considered but lacked the ongoing support and community engagement benefits of leisure centre access. Finally, limiting the scheme to national-level athletes was rejected to ensure broader access and to nurture emerging talent at all stages of development.