At Inverness Leisure, part of High Life Highland, the safety of children in our swimming pools is a top priority. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all, we ask that parents and carers follow the guidelines below.
Supervision responsibilities
- Parents and carers are responsible for the safe behaviour and supervision of their children at all times.
- A responsible person is defined as someone aged 16 or over who is able to swim.
- Lifeguards are present to ensure general pool safety but cannot replace the close supervision provided by a parent or carer.
- Carers must remain in close proximity and contact with their children, especially in the water.
- Children who are non-swimmers or weak swimmers must stay within the shallow end of the pool.
- Children with additional needs should be supervised appropriately based on their individual requirements.
Admission ratios
Splash sessions have additional lifeguard cover. To maintain safety, the following adult-to-child ratios apply:
| Age of child | General session | Splash session |
|---|---|---|
| 0-4 years | 1 adult: 1 child | 1 adult: 2 children |
| 5-7 years | 1 adult: 2 children | 1 adult: 3 children |
Pool Area Access
Children under 8 years may access the following areas, depending on swimming ability:
Area | 0-4 Years | 5-7 Years |
| Toddler & Bubble Pools | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Wave Pool | ✔️ max depth 1.3m | ✔️ Competent swimmers - permitted ✔️ Weak/non-swimmers - max depth 1.3m |
| River Pool | ✔️ Weak/non-swimmers may require use of flotation devices | ✔️ Weak/non-swimmers may require use of flotation devices |
| Flumes | ❌ | ✔️ Minimum height: 1.06m ✔️ Accompanying adult must go down the flume first |
| Competition Pool | ✔️ Max depth 1.1m | ✔️ Competent swimmers - permitted ✔️ Weak/non-swimmers - max depth 1.1m |
Additional guidelines
- All children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult (16+) at all times.
- The accompanying adult must maintain close contact with the child/children at all times.
- Wristbands must be worn throughout the visit.
- Please do not use pool facilities if experiencing symptoms of infection, diarrhoea, or upset stomach.
- Non-compliance with the admissions policy may result in being asked to leave the pool.
Note: This policy applies specifically to Inverness Leisure. Users of other High Life Highland pools should refer to the general child access policy for swimming pools - please click here.
Ready to swim?
Check out our pool timetable, book a lesson or learn more about swimming at Inverness Leisure.
