OXFORD City Council has relaunched a scheme for people experiencing homelessness in the city to have access to leisure centre.

From June, the council is offering a free three month introductory membership at its leisure centres for anyone accommodated in hostels or supported housing through Oxford’s adult homeless pathway.

The scheme provides free access to swimming, gyms, and exercise classes at Barton and Ferry leisure centres and Leys Pools & Leisure.

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It is open by referral from any organisation with people living in the adult homeless pathway.

Once the initial period ends people can renew their free membership for another three months.

After this, they will be able to do so at the discounted rate of £19.50 a month or by paying the discounted pay as you go rate for individual classes or sessions.

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Councillor Diko Blackings, cabinet member for affordable housing, housing security and housing the homeless said: ““We’re reintroducing free and discounted memberships at our leisure centres as people with experience of rough sleeping should have the same opportunity to access leisure and creative activities as the rest of Oxford’s community.

"Homelessness can take a heavy toll on physical and mental health, and physical activity can help to counteract these effects and improve people’s health and wellbeing.”