I am heartened to read of the drive to increase access to lido swimming for the benefit of public health, especially as the planet heats up (Labour MPs call on water firms to save Britain’s lost lidos, 4 July).
Having recently published a peer-reviewed study on the meaning of lido swimming as part of my MSc in occupational therapy, I propose that their health and wellbeing benefits reach far beyond their cooling properties during heatwaves.
Research findings by me and my co-author, Hannah Spring, align with wider evidence on the benefits of swimming in natural waters, suggesting that lido swimming allows people to develop a sense of connection and belonging to others and to their community, to reap the physical and mental health benefits of gaining a sense of purpose, achievement and headspace, and to experience being in harmony with nature and with oneself.
A unique finding, however, points to lidos as places that evoke a sense of nostalgia and connect people to the past, suggesting lido swimming is distinct from other forms of outdoor swimming.
The Fabian Society is right to highlight how lidos acted as public spaces that democratised the pursuit of leisure, and I believe they continue to do so today. It is perhaps this sense of equality and the emotional connection to our shared social history that make them such a special part of the fabric of our communities.
Lidos offer a safe, controlled environment in which to swim outdoors, and the value they bring to individuals and communities is multifaceted. It is encouraging to witness their second golden age, but more research into their utility as community health and wellbeing resources is warranted to support their development and funding.
Katherine Arnott
Beverley, East Yorkshire
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