New 'empowering' ice skating programme launches at Slough Ice Arena

New sessions to make ice skating more inclusive have been launched at Slough Ice Arena.

The venue, which is managed by Everyone Active and Slough Borough Council, have teamed up with British Ice Skating to introduce a new ‘Learn to Skate’ programme.

This inclusive pathway into ice skating is for individuals who experience challenges progressing in standard skating courses, due to a disability, impairment or health condition.

Everyone Active contract manager Luke Routhorn said: “Ice skating is a fantastic sport that everyone should be able to enjoy. However, we understand that a typical ice rink environment can be uncomfortable or challenging for some, particularly if you are neurodivergent, have a disability, or live with a health condition.

“That’s why we are proud to launch these inclusive sessions, empowering people to enjoy ice skating in a setting that suits them. Whether you’re new to the ice and keen to learn the ropes, or would simply like to enjoy a casual session with friends and family, our new inclusive sessions have something for everyone.

“We can’t wait to welcome the local community to get their skates on and stay active on the ice in a fun, supportive environment.”

Each class will be led by an experienced coach and include no more than 10 learners at a time. A coach assistant will also be on hand for additional support.

Slough Ice Arena will also introduce casual ice skating sessions alongside this formal, structured programme to create a more calming environment for enjoying the ice.

Music will be turned off to benefit those with sensory differences, such as people living with autism, ADHD or dementia, and the sessions will run at a reduced capacity, for those who feel overwhelmed on a typically busy ice rink.

Keith Hudson, Skate UK lead and development officer at British Ice Skating, said: “It’s incredible to see Slough Ice Arena using our new Skate UK course to allow more inclusive pathways to participate in Ice Skating.

“Slough have had incredible success with their local club in engaging disabled people into the sport and now introducing a new route into the sport will only benefit the local community having the accessibility to ice skate.

“We are proud to work with Everyone Active in creating these environments, British Ice Skating continue to work towards becoming an inclusive and accessible sport, we work closely with our Skate UK rinks as we are best placed to tackle these inequalities and have a responsibility to ensure that everyone has equal opportunity to participate, compete and succeed in ice skating.”

The Learn to Skate sessions run every Thursday from 4.30pm until 5pm and the weekly casual sessions are every Monday from 10.30am until 11.30am.

Free skate aids hire – including penguins or polar bears – is also available upon request.

Councillor Iftakhar Ahmed, lead member for community cohesion and leisure at Slough Borough Council, added: "This sounds like a great initiative to make ice skating more inclusive. I hope more people come along to try it out during these new sessions."

Spaces are limited so booking is essential. Visit: https://www.everyoneactive.com/centre/slough-ice-arena/