A CAMPAIGN has been launched to protect the pensions of staff at Wales National Pool Swansea and Swansea Bay Sports Park when the running of both sites transfers to Freedom Leisure this summer.
UNISON says around 90 workers, including lifeguards, gym instructors, swimming instructors and reception staff, could be affected when Freedom Leisure takes over the contract from Swansea Council and Swansea University.
The union claims some staff could lose thousands of pounds from their retirement savings if their existing pension arrangements are not protected. It says council-employed workers who transfer to the pension offered by Freedom Leisure could lose more than £2,200 a year from their pension pot.
UNISON Cymru is now urging members of the public to back an online campaign calling on Swansea Council and the Welsh Government to intervene and guarantee that staff pensions are protected when the transfer takes place.
Catrin Picand-Jones, UNISON Cymru area organiser, said Wales National Pool Swansea and Swansea Bay Sports Park were “vital sporting assets for Swansea and Wales”.
She said: “The new contract would cut the retirement income of swimming instructors, reception workers and other staff who keep these sites running for the community.
“Many accepted low pay because the trade-off was a decent pension that provided some security for the future. The council and government must keep to their end of the bargain and protect these workers’ pensions.”
Freedom Leisure is due to take over the Swansea Bay Sports Park contract on August 1, 2026.
Wales National Pool Swansea forms part of Wales’ national sporting infrastructure and is used by swimmers, clubs, schools and elite athletes.
UNISON, which represents public service workers across the UK, says it will continue pressing for guarantees for affected staff before the transfer is completed.
