The leisure centres in the Chilterns launched free memberships for children in care and care experienced young people.

Chilterns Lifestyle Centre in Amersham, Chalfont Leisure Centre, Chesham Leisure Centre, Swan Pool and Leisure Centre and Aqua Vale Swimming and Fitness Centre will offer the ‘Cared For Membership’ as part of a new initiative between the centre operator Everyone Active and Bucks Council to reduce barriers for children and young people participating in sport and physical activity.

READ MORE: Russell Brand visits Bite Down at The Antelope in High Wycombe

Access with the free membership includes the gym, swimming, soft play and group exercise depending on their age.

A spokesperson for Everyone Active said: "We are immensely proud to launch this partnership in Buckinghamshire.

"We understand the vital role we play in supporting all areas of the community and feel this membership will make a real difference to many young people’s lives.  

“We want to provide opportunities for young people and children who have been in or currently are in care, that activity is for all, and we want to offer them a safe space to enjoy our sports and activity offering.”

The free membership is set up through the local Council Family support team.

Figures from the Department for Education show the number of children in care is at an all-time high as more than 80,000 are in care - 67 in every 10,000 children. 

In Buckinghamshire, 500 children are looked after and 250 are care leavers. 

More information about the membership can be found here. 

READ MORE: GP patients satisfaction survey results breakdown