The Fingal Centre is situated in the same building as the library and the school. The access is through the library. There are two sides to the centre, the wet side and the dry side. The wet side is of course the swimming pool, sauna and steam room. And the dry side contains the gym and sports halls and courts. This is where team games are played and classes are held. The doors are not automatic and quite stiff but the staff are very helpful.
The Swimming Pool
The swimming pool has two swimming sessions a week for people with disabilities. The communal changing area has two cubicles big enough for wheelchairs. One has a hoist. There is also a row of cubicles that are slightly larger for those that need more room while changing. All cubicles have a bench for those that need to be able to sit while changing.
The pool has one set of steps that are wider and less steep to aid entry to the water. There is also a hoist available to aid with lowering less mobile swimmers into the water.
Staff are on hand to help with this if necessary. If you need a seat while taking a shower just ask a member of staff and they will get you a chair.
The Dryside
On the dry side there is a disabled toilet/changing area/shower. There is a gym with several fitness machines including a recumbent bike. An induction is required to use the gym. There are not currently any fitness classes available suitable for disabled people but for those that are trying to increase fitness or have other issues the staff will be able to advise.
Highlife membership is available for the centre. If you are claiming benefits you can get a Highlife card with proof of these benefits. This entitles you to use the centre at a discount and to take a carer in with you if needed for the same discount.
Up to date details of classes, opening hours and further information is on their website or Facebook page.
I am a stroke victim currently undertaking physiotherapy and using two walking sticks to aid my mobility.
Would the swimming pool be suitable for someone in my condition?
Best wishes
Gordon Higgins
Staffin
Sarah has used the pool with both her stick and her mobility scooter. They have wider steps for those with mobility issues to enter the pool and if these are not suitable they have a winch and can lower you into the water. We suggest you try one of the disabled sessions, currently on Tuesday and Saturday afternoons as these are quieter and the staff are very helpful and will be able to advise.