Move more, pay less: New benefits now available for Fairer Access Scheme

Richmond’s Fairer Access Scheme has been expanded to include even more activities and discounts, ensuring no one is priced out of getting active at our leisure facilities.

The scheme offers reduced rates on memberships and activities for Richmond residents receiving benefits - across all six sports and fitness centres in the borough.

Starting in January 2026, the extra discounts being added to the scheme include:

• Discounted fitness classes for adults
• Discounts on adult court hire (including squash and tennis annual memberships)
• Home-site Fairer Access Membership at the discounted price of £16 per month or £160 for an annual membership.

This gives you access to your selected home site facilities including gym access and fitness classes at Shene Sports and Fitness Centre, Whitton Sports and Fitness Centre or Hampton Sports and Fitness Centre.

In addition to the existing discounts of the scheme, it now incudes:

• No joining fee on direct debit and annual memberships 
• 60% discount on pay as you go adult swimming and gym sessions 
• Free general swimming for children of parents with a concession membership - available for indoor general swimming sessions only 
• 40% discount on junior coached activities - excludes swimming lessons 
• A free adult concessionary pay as you go membership 
• A Fairer Access membership at the discounted price of £31 per month or £310 for an annual membership which gives you access to all our leisure centres and includes gym access, fitness classes and swimming bookings 

Councillor Alan Juriansz, Lead Member for Sport at Richmond Council, said: “Everyone deserves the opportunity to stay active and healthy. By expanding the Fairer Access Scheme, we’re breaking down barriers so more residents can enjoy our sports and fitness centres.

“At this time of year, when health and wellbeing are often top priority, we’re making it easier than ever for people to exercise and feel their best, now and for the future.”

The scheme is one of the priorities for our Leisure Strategy which aims to increase participation in sport, leisure and physical activity for everyone in the borough.

You can apply for a pay as you go membership with Better. Alternatively, you can apply in person at one of our sports and fitness centres.

People in emergency accommodation and sanctuary seekers in Richmond can apply for a free concessionary membership. This provides free access to indoor general swimming sessions, group exercise classes, and gym sessions.

Find out more about the scheme for sanctuary seekers and people in emergency accommodation.