Poolpods improve access for swimmers in East Lothian

Residents and visitors to East Lothian can now enjoy easier access to swimming, with Poolpod lifts available at Aubigny Sports Centre, Musselburgh Sports Centre and North Berwick Sports Centre. Step-free access is also available at Dunbar Leisure Pool via a beach-style ramp.

The Poolpod is a submersible platform that allows swimmers to enter and exit the water safely and comfortably, either using a submersible wheelchair or by standing as the lift descends into the pool. They’re easy to use and support a wide range of people who may find traditional pool steps challenging.

Robert, a regular swimming pool user at North Berwick Sports Centre, shared how he uses the Poolpod, “I survived a serious stroke in 2017, and swimming has never been more important to me. I now live with hemiplegia (one-sided paralysis) which affects the right side of my body.

“Swimming has helped build my strength and assisted with my balance and walking. The natural resistance of water offers a safe and enjoyable way to exercise without the fear of falling over too. I also love the sense of weightlessness I have in water and thoroughly enjoy getting some pool time to myself to just relax.

“I have to admit to feeling slightly nervous the first time I used the Poolpod but once I was on it and saw how it was operated, I felt very much reassured. Having people present who are trained, know what they are doing and have your safety in mind makes a big difference. I’ve been in and out of a few pools since my stroke and this is by far the easiest method.

“Getting back into the pool following stroke felt quite daunting and swimming with hemiplegia sounds tricky, but it does in fact offer a great amount joy and freedom. Using water buoyancy to counteract gravity allows me a greater range of movement and the possibility of exercise that would prove impossible for me on land.

“There are lots of swimming aids that make it easier too, such as pool shoes, noodles and floatation collars.”

Bill Axon, Chief Executive of Enjoy Leisure, said, “As East Lothian’s health and wellbeing charity, people are at the heart of everything we do. Since the addition of the Poolpods, feedback from our customers has been tremendous and we hope to see more of our East Lothian communities take up, or return to, swimming.

“Swimming is one of the best ways to be active and our Poolpods significantly reduce barriers such as steps and ladders, enabling more people to access the water. They provide simple, dignified access to the water, helping more people enjoy the pool independently and with confidence. I encourage anyone thinking about it to visit their nearest Enjoy Leisure swimming pool.”

What is a Poolpod?

A Poolpod can be self-operated via a wristband or staff-assisted.

These are suitable for a wide range of swimmers, including wheelchair users, people with reduced mobility or long-term conditions, older adults, parents with young children and pregnant people.

Where to find one:

• Aubigny Sports Centre in Haddington
• North Berwick Sports Centre
• Musselburgh Sports Centre

Dunbar Leisure Pool does not have a pod, but offers step-free access via a beach style ramp.

Our team is fully trained to support anyone who needs assistance. There’s no need to explain your circumstances, just let the reception team know you’d like to use the Poolpod.

Public swimming times are available on each venue page and no advance booking is required.