Edinburgh Leisure, the city’s largest sports and leisure provider, is introducing specialised Additional Support Needs (ASN) sessions at its Clambers soft play facility, marking a significant step toward inclusive recreational opportunities for all families in the capital.

Starting Tuesday, December 3, 2024, dedicated ASN sessions will run weekly from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm at the Royal Commonwealth Pool, chosen specifically for its central location and accessible parking facilities.

“This initiative directly responds to our community’s needs,” explains Lynne Bauba, Manager at the Royal Commonwealth Pool. “Many families expressed that the absence of dedicated ASN sessions prevented them from accessing our soft play facilities. We’re now breaking down these barriers to ensure every child can enjoy our facilities in a supportive environment.”

Key features of the new ASN sessions:

• Specialised staff training to support children and families
• Dedicated sensory toys and equipment
• Virtual familiarisation tour available online, including route finding to accessible facilities

To help families prepare for their visit, Edinburgh Leisure is creating a comprehensive virtual tour, allowing parents and children to familiarise themselves with the venue before their visit. The tour will showcase the complete journey from arrival to the play area, including accessible facilities.

A single visit to Clambers for a 90-minute session at the Royal Commonwealth Pool costs:

• Free for 0-5 months
• £1.60 for 6-11 months
• £7.30 for 1-2 years
• £11.50 for 3-10 years

The initiative is part of Edinburgh Leisure’s broader commitment to inclusive recreation across its venues.  The decision to locate ASN sessions at the Royal Commonwealth Pool was based on community feedback and accessibility considerations.

Edinburgh Leisure’s play frames are suitable for children up to ten years old and there are frames for babies, toddlers, and juniors up to 10 years. All their soft play facilities include Café Refresh offering healthy options.