Ukrainian refugees are being invited to take up the offer of a free Better Health Centre membership or a lesson or course membership at leisure centres in Bath.
The scheme, which offers a fixed three-month membership, is open to refugees who were living in Ukraine prior to January 2022, along with all other international refugees who have been granted refugee or asylum status by the Government.
The initiative has been structured to be as simple as possible, recognising the challenges already faced by the refugees.
Individuals can apply directly, while family hosts, charities such as RESET, the Red Cross and the Refugee Council and Better’s own in-centre staff can also apply on behalf of a refugee by emailing either [email protected] to apply for a leisure centre membership or [email protected] to apply for a specific lesson or course programme.
Applications should include the following information:
- First Name
- Last Name
- Date of Birth
- Email Address
- Phone Number
- Gender
- Selected Leisure Centre
- If applying for a lesson or course membership, the name of the selected lesson or course.
Applicants are also asked to attach proof of eligibility for the scheme to their email. Better says it will accept any of the following documents:
- A letter from the Home Office confirming refugee or asylum status
- A Ukrainian Family Scheme Visa
- Proof of application to the UK Government as a Ukrainian refugee
Applicants for the free membership scheme will receive a reply within three working days.
Commenting on the new initiative Barnaby Rich, Partnership Manager for Better leisure centres in Bath said: “We have all been moved by the plight of Ukraine’s refugees and those from other countries who have found sanctuary in the UK in recent years.
“We know the huge benefits that all forms of exercise can have our physical and mental well-being and hope that this initiative will play a small part in making refugees’ experience of life in the UK a positive one.”
For further information and details on how to apply, click here.