Wandsworth Council Scraps 'Access for All' Leisure Scheme for New Targeted Model
Wandsworth Council has announced the scrapping of its 'Access for All' leisure scheme, replacing it with a new, more targeted Culture and Leisure Concession Scheme set to launch in January 2027. The decision, made by the Finance Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Thursday 8 October 2026, aims to establish a more financially sustainable approach to concessionary access to leisure facilities.
The current scheme, introduced in 2023, has been deemed unsustainable due to its broad eligibility criteria and reliance on reserves. The new scheme will concentrate on residents with an evidenced need
and leisure activities directly linked to health, wellbeing, and participation. Eligibility will be narrowed to residents in receipt of Carer's Allowance, students, Looked After Children, and care leavers. Automatic age-based concessions for older residents will not be part of the core scheme, although a future means-tested concession will be considered during a later annual fees and charges review.
The new Culture and Leisure Concession Scheme is projected to generate additional income of approximately £87,000 to £217,500 per annum, depending on user retention. This move is intended to reduce reliance on reserves, which are currently under pressure from broad discounts and free provision not consistently linked to strategic outcomes. The remaining balance of the 'Access for All' Reserve, amounting to £2.287m, will be transferred to the Financial Resilience Reserve for general use. The council's overall financial challenges, exacerbated by government funding cuts and inflation, necessitate such measures. See Public reports pack.
Under the proposed paid concession model, discounts are expected to range from 20% to 40%. The council is also proposing to develop a targeted water safety initiative, including free swimming lessons for children aged seven to 16 who cannot swim 25 metres. This initiative, subject to the approval of associated revenue savings, will be developed in collaboration with leisure providers and schools to ensure it effectively reaches the intended age group, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Concerns were raised during the committee meeting about the potential negative impact on residents who may lose eligibility or see reduced benefits, particularly those with disabilities, women, and younger people, who are disproportionately represented in the current scheme's membership. An Equality Impact Assessment (EIA) has been drafted and will be reviewed throughout the implementation process. Mitigation measures include clear and targeted advance communications, confirmation of eligibility and application processes, honouring existing bookings and memberships, and signposting to alternative sources of support. Frontline services will also be supported in responding to enquiries.
The transition from the current 'Access for All' scheme will begin with no new applications or bookings accepted after 31 October 2026, with the scheme officially ending on 31 December 2026. Existing commitments will be honoured throughout this period. For older residents, a future means-tested concession will be considered through a later annual fees and charges review.