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The pool was opened in
1979 and is a unique purpose-built facility available to any individual with a
disability whether that disability is permanent or temporary.
Every week the pool averages 700 users. Since 1979 the pool has been
open and has been used over 750,000 times.
The Len Lee Suite opened
in September 2002, costing £300,000. It adds a further two changing rooms and
two high dependency private changing rooms, all connected by an overhead hoist
movement system, taking users to showers, toilets and directly into the pool.
Four adjustable changing beds are also available, two are fitted with showers.
The
pool is managed by Mr. Paul Charlwood,
with assistant manager, Mrs. Jan Platt,
who have both have been with the pool since
it opened in 1979. Two pool assistants make up the
'Team' at the pool, all staff are qualified in First Aid, life saving and have
swimming teaching qualifications.
The pool measures 13.5
metres by 6 metres and 0.8 to 1.5 metres in depth. Warm water is the prime
essential requirement for hydrotherapy treatment; the water is maintained at
92'F with the air temperature balanced to match. There are five different easy
means of entry to the water. All of the pools facilities are on one level with
automatic entry doors allowing easy access for wheelchair users.
The interior is especially designed for people with special needs in mind
and has non-slip tiling and handrails throughout. A sunken walkway along two
sides of the pool allows easy access for training and safety.
A specially equipped
Jacuzzi room allows several users at once to enjoy this therapy; a hoist with
shower chair makes this facility totally accessible.
A full line of equipment,
such as wheelchairs, shower chairs, hoists and water therapy aids are also
available. There are specially equipped changing rooms with hydraulic changing
tables for males and females plus a private family changing area. There are
large shower areas. A lounge enables users to relax after their session and
have a friendly chat and a cup of coffee in comfort.
All pool facilities are
open 76 hours a week over 7 days and is fully operational for 50 weeks in the
year. Please Click here for opening
hours
17 Special Schools and
Units use the pool on a regular basis, Resource Centres, numerous local groups
and individuals. The user's age range from 1 to 80 years plus and they come
from all over Wiltshire and the surrounding counties.
The users suffer from a
wide range of disabilities including brain damage, cerebral palsy, muscular
dystrophy, spina bifida, arthritis, blindness, deafness and asthma. Other users
include amputees, people with severe back problems and those recovering from
operations. In short virtually any condition you can think of.
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