This November, charitable social enterprise GLL will be offering more opportunities for wellbeing in its ‘Better’ leisure centres and libraries across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Over 200 ‘Better’ venues will be opening their doors to the public, offering a range of free activities and taster sessions to encourage people to stay fit and well during the colder months. Participating centres in Preston include West View and Fulwood Leisure Centres.

In keeping with this month’s ‘Social Enterprise Day’, the Open Weekend will run with the theme of ‘Thriving on Purpose’. The aim is to celebrate the positive impact of inclusive, purpose-driven activities for people of all ages and abilities.

‘Better’ leisure centres will showcase a variety of ways to stay active, resilient and engaged with life – while also offering opportunities to try something new. Activities include adult and junior gym taster sessions, baby and toddler swim, water safety sessions, yoga, boxfit, pickleball and health drop-in sessions.

Michael Manley, Preston Partnership Manager, comments, “The Open Weekend is a fantastic opportunity to visit your local ‘Better’ facilities and find out what we offer. There are so many ways to keep fit and active and try out new activities – you might make new friends and discover a talent you didn’t know you had!”

Free day passes must be booked in advance. For details about how to claim your free pass, access the schedule of activities at various leisure centres and to secure your place on a specific swim session or fitness class, please visit Open Days | Better.

The announcement follows the recent introduction of a new Resident Discount Card offering savings on swimming, gym sessions, fitness classes and hot drinks at Fulwood and West View Leisure Centres in Preston.

This new initiative started on 1st November, as a collaboration between GLL and Preston City Council, and is supported by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund as well as match funding from GLL. The move is designed to encourage and support individuals and families who want to be more active. It means residents can access the leisure facilities on a subsidised pay as you go basis - making it easier, more accessible and affordable for people to exercise.