Better leisure centres across Oxfordshire are offering Ukrainian refugees a free three-month Better Health Centre membership or a lesson or a course.

The scheme is open to refugees who were living in the Ukraine prior to January 2022, plus anyone who has been granted refugee or asylum status by the UK Government.

Individuals can apply directly, while family hosts, charities such as RESET, the Red Cross and the Refugee Council and Better's own in-centre staff can also apply on their behalf.

You can email supportedmembership@gll.org to apply for a leisure centre membership or supportedlessonandcourse@gll.org to apply for a specific lesson or course programme. 

Applications should include first and last name, date of birth, email address, phone number, gender and selected leisure centre.

Add the selected lesson or course if applicable.

Applicants are also asked to attach proof of eligibility for the scheme to their email.  Better will accept any of the following documents:

  • A letter from the Home Office confirming refugee or asylum status
  • A Ukrainian Family Scheme Visa
  • Proof of application to the UK Government as a Ukrainian refugee

John Amatt, head of service for Better leisure centres in Oxfordshire, said: “We have all been moved by the plight of Ukraine’s refugees and those from other countries who have found sanctuary in the UK in recent years.

"We know the huge benefits that all forms of exercise can have our physical and mental well-being and hope that this initiative will play a small part in making refugees’ experience of life in the UK a positive one.”

For further information and details on how to apply visit: https://www.better.org.uk/news/new-scheme-sees-better-welcome-ukrainian-refugees