Disabled people priced out of leisure facilities

MS charity claims trust’s ‘unfair’ membership policy discriminates against sufferers of the condition

People with disabilities are being priced out of gyms and leisure facilities across Perth and Kinross, a leading health charity has claimed.

MS Society Scotland argues Live Active Leisure’s (Lal) unique membership policy discriminates against those living with the condition and blocks them from getting crucial exercise.

The trust, which operates leisure services across the region, is the only organisation of its kind in Scotland that does not offer concessionary memberships to people on Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or in receipt of Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

Ms Society Scotland will launch a public campaign and petition today, calling on Lal to review its policy.

Steve Cutler, activities volunteer at the MS Society Perth and Kinross group, said: “Without going to the gym, I wouldn’t be anywhere near as mobile as I am now.

“My GP always tells me how important exercise is for helping with my MS symptoms.”

“The fact that some people living with MS are missing out on benefiting from regular exercise because of Live Active Leisure’s policy is unacceptable.”

The charity says MS can increase living costs by around £200 per week. PIP, a benefit that is replacing DLA, is paid to help people manage the extra costs of additional care and mobility needs.

Many local people who are living with MS are socially prescribed gym membership by their GPs but have been unable to afford to continue using local services because of costs, the MS Society said.

Morna Simpkins, director of MS Society Scotland, said: “We know that regular exercise can be hugely beneficial in helping to manage common MS symptoms, so it is extremely disappointing Live Active Leisure do not include PIP and DLA as accepted benefits for concessionary memberships.”

Ian Hutton, wellbeing manager for Lal, said the trust had a “substantial wellbeing offer” providing additional support for anyone living with physical, mental or long-term health issues.

“This wide-reaching support comes in various forms including subsidised venue and community–based classes, one-to-one sessions, and discounted membership options,” he said.

“We also offer free access to carers for individuals who require personal support while using our facilities.”

“In addition to this we have an extensive concessions policy which is primarily based around customers who are in receipt of low income benefits; an approach which allows everyone in Perth and Kinross the opportunity to live an active lifestyle.”

We know that regular exercise can be hugely beneficial in helping to manage common MS symptoms. MORNA SIMPKINS, MS SOCIETY SCOTLAND