Disabled swimmers to benefit from a Portable Pool Lift at the National Pool
 
Kunsill Malti ghall-iSport (KMS) has just installed a portable pool lift, the first of its kind to be
installed in Malta, at the National Pool Complex in Tal-Qroqq. This initiative is part of KMS’s
programme of upgrading and providing facilities that offers sporting opportunities to all, irrelevant
of age and ability.
 
The portable pool lift, which is battery operated, requires no mounting to the pool deck and adheres
to strict safety regulations. The entire structure is made of steel for strength and outdoor durability.
The operational system is simple and works at the touch of a button; for added safety it has a
shoulder and lap strap. The lift can be used by the user independently or with the guidance from a
staff member. The lift allows the user to be lowered slowly into the pool where he or she can easily
alight from the chair and swim freely.
 
Swimming is an important sport activity especially for those who have mobility problems; the main
difficulties for such persons mainly lies in ‘accessibility’ issues -getting in or out of a pool. Not
everyone but many handicapped and elderly persons can easily do swimming, as exercising in water
allows greater freedom of movement and brings about a therapeutic effect. With the introduction of
a new portable pool lift, people with mobility issues will be facilitated. The KMS hopes that disabled
persons or people with mobility problems will be encouraged by this move and will be motivated to
take up and enjoy the benefits of swimming. For more information about the National Pool Complex
(NPC) and the various membership packages in place, contact the NPC on 21318251/2 or send an
email to swimpool@sportmalta.org.mt