Poolpod makes a splash with users at Banbridge Leisure Centre

Banbridge Leisure Centre are making waves for swimmers thanks to their revolutionary Poolpod facility, a pioneering platform lift system transforming access to swimming pools for people with disabilities and restricted mobility.

Supplied by Disability Sport NI and funded by the Department for Communities, the Poolpod facility was first introduced to Banbridge Leisure Centre in February 2020, unfortunately due to the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown, use of the Poolpod was limited by restrictions, however with the centre once again welcoming back users to the pool, the benefits of this superb system can now be fully enjoyed.

Originally developed for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Poolpod is suitable  for a wide range of users, including people recovering from injury, older people, pregnant ladies and ambulant disabled people, in addition to wheelchair users.  It can be used while standing, or alternatively people can make use of the custom designed submersible wheelchair, which can be accessed in the comfort and privacy of the changing room, to aid their entry and exit to the pool.

Poolpod offers quick and simple access enabling the centre to provide inclusive swimming for all abilities and encourages everyone to Get Moving!

Swim sessions at Banbridge Leisure Centre can be booked via www.getactiveabc.com or on the Get Active ABC App.

Any  customer who wishes to use the Poolpod can simply notify the centre through the booking system.