A treasured hydrotherapy pool in Taunton faces the threat of closure unless urgent repair funding is secured, igniting a community-wide campaign that has garnered political and local business support.
Located at Compass Wellbeing and operated by the charity Compass Disability Services, the hydrotherapy pool serves nearly 100 individuals weekly. It is the only hydrotherapy pool in the region available for public booking and plays a crucial role in supporting both the physical and emotional health of its users.
Michelle Edwards, centre manager at Compass Wellbeing, recently welcomed Gideon Amos, Taunton Deane’s Member of Parliament, for a tour of the facility. She emphasized the pool’s indispensable role for many local residents.
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“As the sole publicly bookable hydrotherapy pool in the area, demand is high – it’s fully booked until January,” Edwards explained. “Our users often do not feel comfortable in other pools due to noise, accessibility issues, expected behaviours, or temperature differences inside and outside the water.
“Hydrotherapy is essential for pain relief, rehabilitation, and emotional wellbeing. It provides a unique feeling of freedom and support that cannot be replicated elsewhere.”
The charity has launched a campaign to raise £35,000 necessary for critical repairs. To date, the community and local businesses have contributed £12,000 towards the target, reflecting strong grassroots support.
“We’re already one-third of the way there thanks to the incredible generosity from our local supporters,” said Edwards. “This encouragement fuels our determination to keep the hydrotherapy pool open and serving the community.”
MP Gideon Amos praised the facility’s impact and pledged his commitment to aid in securing additional funding. “After seeing the facility and understanding how in-demand it is, it’s clear we must do everything possible to prevent closure. Michelle and the team at Compass are doing remarkable work.
“There’s so much more to Compass beyond the hydrotherapy pool, and I will continue working with local businesses and seeking grants to support their vital services.”
Donations to support the repair campaign can be made through the JustGiving page: Save our Hydropool!