New Forres Hydrotherapy Pool chairman, James ‘Doc’ Anderson aims to build stronger links to NHS Grampian and Leanchoil project to increase use of facility

THE new head of the board at a Forres-based regional health facility is looking for backing from statutory bodies.

Forres Hydrotherapy Pool chairman, James ‘Doc’ Anderson, has requested additional support from Moray Council and NHS Grampian since taking the reins from previous chairman Chris Combe - and is hopeful that this will lead to regular funding streams.

He said: “I attend Forres Hydropool to improve my own health and, having been a board member and at monthly meetings for years now, I have taken on the chairmanship. The finances at the pool are not pitching up to pre-covid pandemic levels – income from users is vital as fundraising has not been bringing enough in.”

Moray Hydrotherapy Pool requires around £20,000 operational funding every year. The figure varies according to donations, usage and costs.

The hydro board has initiated discussion on the pool’s future with Moray Council through Sport and Leisure manager Ken Brown, Forres Swimming Pool supervisor Dave Chapman, as well the pool physios.

Doc said: “We are all motivated to keep it functioning. We are keen to demonstrate to council chief executive Roddy Burns and deputy chief Rhona Gunn that the facility is viable and we will demonstrate that it will not be a draw on the council’s resources. We have also highlighted that the hydropool and Forres Swimming Pool next door could be run more cost effectively under the same management. They currently have parallel heating and ventilation.”

NHS Grampian has been asked to help promote the ongoing mental and physical health benefits of using the hydropool.

Doc said: “It will boost attendance if the NHS fully recognises the value and backs it. Forres Health and Care Centre practice manager, Fiona Harris, has already very helpfully put a circular in the waiting room, highlighting this. Hydropools can be used pre and post operations to build muscle to help with recuperation. They are extremely useful for those waiting to have large joint replacement operations, as well as for subsequent rehabilitation.”

He added: “Grampian Health Board acknowledges the Moray Hydropool has much to offer, especially during times of lengthy waiting lists. Making a financial contribution towards the running of the pool would be fair and realistic. A link should also be established with the Leanchoil project as an option for the Leanchoil Trust’s aims of rehabilitation.”

See https://www.morayhydrotherapypool.co.uk/ for more information.