CARERS will get discounted gym membership.

Better, which run many of the leisure centres across Swindon, are offering all carers registered with Swindon Carers Centre a cheaper rate.

The scheme, which launches this month, will give carers a 20 per cent discount on Better Health and Fitness memberships. Carers will also not have to pay a gym joining fee.

The gym membership will allow them to use the facilities and classes at the Oasis, Link Centre, Haydon Centre, Health Hydro, Dorcan Leisure Centre, Haydon Centre and the Turkish Baths.

Rhys Jones, partnership manager for Swindon’s Better leisure centres, said: “We know the huge psychological and physical benefits that regular physical activity provides.

“Carers are the unsung heroes of our society, who often neglect their own wellbeing in order to look after others.

“We hope that this initiative will encourage more of Swindon’s carers to enjoy some time to themselves to de-stress, refocus and socialise.”

Currently, carers of those with a disability only get free entry to Better’s centres when they accompany the person for whom they care.

Fiona Prinzi, deputy chief executive of Swindon Carers Centre, said: “Being a carer can often have a severe, significant and long-lasting impact on their own health and wellbeing.

“It is fantastic to see Better leisure centres supporting carers to access their services.”

Justin Tomlinson, MP for North Swindon, said: “Carers make an overwhelming contribution to our local communities. I am glad to see Better leisure centres engaging with Swindon Carers Centre and I hope that businesses will see this and be inspired to reach out and do what they can to carers a chance to take time out and enjoy themselves.”

For more, visit: www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/swindon.