Richmond and Kingston are offering asylum seekers free or discounted access to gyms, swimming pools and classes – while other residents pay up to £52.50 a month
Migrants make their way from the shore in a small boat as they attempt to cross the English Channel (Image: Getty)
Asylum seekers in London have been offered free gym sessions and workout classes despite residents forced to pay up to £52 a month.
Councils in London are giving asylum seekers discounts on leisure activities.
This includes Richmond Council, whose website allows “sanctuary seekers” in the capital’s borough to apply for free leisure card subscriptions.
The “Richmond Card” gives them free access to gym sessions, group exercise classes and general swimming lessons in indoor pools across five leisure centres.
Meanwhile over 6,000 asylum seekers have used taxpayer money intended for food and clothing to fund their gambling habits, reports suggest.
The Liberal Democrat-run Richmond council said it will accept a letter from the Home Office or an Asylum Application Registration Card as proof of eligibility for those who apply for the leisure card.
A working adult in Richmond meanwhile could be charged up to £52.50 a month to access the fitness suite, classes and swimming at all five leisure centres.
The apparent giveaway was first reported by the Guido Fawkes political blog.
The card can be used across six leisure centres in the borough. Discounted activities include badminton, squash, tennis and gym sessions.
Registered carers, pensioners and people on benefits can also access the discounts. Meanwhile Labour-run Wandsworth Borough Council is offering 50% off e-bike rentals to asylum seekers.
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp described it as a “slap in the face”. He added: “It’s an insult to every struggling family in the country. Labour has the wrong priorities.”
A spokesman for Richmond council said: “The fairer and free access schemes provide discounts or free access to some activities at our sports and fitness centres and is available to a number of eligible residents in Richmond, including pensioners, carers and those living with disabilities. Richmond council is committed to creating supportive and inclusive environments for sanctuary seekers, offering a range of services to enable their integration into local communities.”
