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Strathclyde Sport swimming pool
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Trans, Non-Binary and Intersex Swim

These swim sessions are for trans, non-binary, genderqueer and intersex* people, and are open to students and non-students.

Where to go

The pool is located in the Strathclyde Sport building opposite the library on campus. A volunteer will be on hand for the first few sessions to answer any questions and show you in.

160 Cathedral Street
Glasgow
G4 0RF

There are currently no events.

We know that people who are intersex/have variations in sex characteristics are not necessarily trans and non-binary, though many also are, and acknowledge that many intersex people may feel more comfortable attending this session rather than a general pool session.

How to book

Bookings for each session should be made through Strathclyde Sports' booking and membership system.

This is to ensure the number of people at each session does not exceed the pool capacity, so we recommend pre-booking for the session. If you arrive before 2pm without pre-booking, and there is space in the session, you will still be able to attend after registering at reception.

Register for account

When you register, Strathclyde Sports is required to collect the following information:

  • First and last name 
  • Date of birth 
  • Email and phone number 
  • Gender (with the options female, male and other) 
  • Title (with the options Mx, Unknown, Doctor, Professor, Lady, Miss, Mrs, Ms, Master, Mr, Sir) 

We recognise and apologise that having this information collected can be uncomfortable and these options are limited, and we are working to change them. We recommend that folks who do not wish to give this information verbally at reception register themselves online and book before arrival.

Users who have attended Strathclyde Sport before should already be registered on the booking and membership system. Once you have created a membership or pay as you go account, please book the swim session via the booking link. Strathclyde Sport Members can book up to 7 days in advance and pay as you go members can book up to 3 days in advance.

What to expect on arrival

If it is your first visit and you have already registered and booked online, you will only be required to provide your name (and possibly date of birth) at reception.

If it is your first visit and you have not registered online, you are required to register in person at reception. Please see above for the information required when registering. There is an iPad at reception which pool users can use to register online before the session if they would prefer not to register verbally.

Term-time sessions

From the week beginning 23rd September 2024, the sessions will be Monday afternoon from 2-3pm.

Please note the swimming pool, steam room and sauna are booked exclusively for sessions, however there may be individuals outside of this group using the changing rooms as they are shared with gym users.

We understand that this still may not feel safe for everyone, and welcome feedback on how this could be improved. Pool staff have received training on trans inclusion in sports and keeping trans people safe in the swimming pool and will soon receive training from LEAP sports. They are committed to making the centre inclusive and safe for trans users.

Cost

Each swim session is pay as you go meaning a single swim session is £5.80. The Sports building is now cashless so you will need to pay using card. The sessions are free for Strathclyde Sport members. You can find out more information on membership and one-off pool use at Strathclyde Sport.

You can find out more information about memberships and one-off pool use here, and more information about cancellations, refunds and waiting lists here.

Membership

Accessibility

You can find out more information on pool accessibility at Strathclyde Sport including what training staff have.

Accessibility

Changing rooms

There are two single occupancy gender neutral and accessible changing rooms, one between the male and female changing rooms, and one or two by the pool. The rest of the changing rooms are split into male and female, and users can change in whichever they prefer. There are enclosed private cubicles to shower and change in both.

This is the layout of a male changing room in Strathclyde Sport.

Male changing room layout

This is the layout of a female changing room in Strathclyde Sport.

Female changing room layout

Gender Affirmation Fund

From September 2024, Trans and Non-Binary Strathclyde Students are able to apply for mini grants of to up £50 each to buy gender access affirming items, and an additional £50 for travel costs to appointments. Each student will thus be able to apply for up to £100. You can find the details on how to apply to this Alumni Fund supported initiative here. Please contact the Advice Hub if you have questions about the fund.

Swimwear

Swimwear attire permitted is as follows. Please note you do not have to wear a top:

  • Bikinis
  • Tankinis
  • Swimming costumes
  • Swimming trunks
  • Swimming shorts
  • Lycra leggings (including below knees)
  • Short and long sleeve close fitting t-shirts, and swim dresses

For swimwear tips, see FOLX trans swimming guide.

Trans Swimming Guide

If you have a general question please contact us.

Have a booking question?

If you have any issues when booking a session please contact Strathclyde Sport.

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