The 680.000 people in Berlin who qualify as low-income will soon be able to visit the city’s public swimming pools free of charge.

Berlin public pools free for low-income citizens

People in Berlin who are low-income and qualify for a Berechtigungsnachweis, previously known as a Berlin Pass, will soon be able to visit public swimming pools in the German city for free.

The new scheme will begin on February 15 and run until December 31, 2023. 30 public pools run by the Berliner Bäder Betriebe (Berlin Baths Association) will take part and free attendance will be possible from Monday to Friday between 10am and 3pm and all day on Saturdays.

Around 680.000 people in the capital qualify for a Berechtigungsnachweis. With the card, Berliners who receive social security, such as unemployment benefit (Arbeitslosengeld) or housing benefit (Wohngeld), are granted reduced or free entrance to sights, cinemas, theatres, public parks and now swimming pools. Cardholders can also attend adult education classes and travel on public transport using a discount.

Leisure activities are important in times of stress, says Left party senator

Speaking to the dpa, SPD senator Iris Spranger said, “Leisure activities and sports are essential elements of participation.” 

Berlin’s Left Party also pointed out the importance of the new, simple policy. “In these times of crisis it is particularly important for children to take their minds off things and simply have fun,” social senator Katja Kipping added. “Due to price increases the affected households often lack money.” 

The new policy arrives a few days after Germany’s Federal Statistical Office, Destatis, announced that real wages in Germany have sunk by 4,1 percent, with low-income earners bearing the brunt.

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