Fairfield Leisure
Dartford, Kent· DA1 1JB
SEN Suitability Assessment
Based on analysis of 21 public reviews (May 2025 – Apr 2026) · Good confidence
SEN Score
Based on noise, queues, staff, calm spaces
Breakdown
Parent summary
Fairfield Leisure has friendly staff and good facilities overall, with some staff members showing real care and patience. The venue offers memberships for people with learning disabilities and has provided thorough inductions. Some visitors have reported concerns about hygiene standards in changing areas and water quality, whilst staff attitudes and experiences can vary between visits.
Best times to visit
Quieter periods are likely to be more manageable for your child; staff can advise on when these typically occur when you call ahead or visit.
Worth avoiding
Busy swimming times and peak leisure hours may involve longer queues and higher noise levels.
What visitors say
Visitors have praised friendly and patient staff, with several highlighting specific team members who went out of their way to help. The leisure centre offers memberships specifically for people with learning disabilities. Some visitors have reported concerns about hygiene standards in changing areas and water quality. Experiences with staff support appear to vary; it may be worth speaking with staff directly about any specific access needs when you visit or call ahead.
Based on a sample of public reviews. Experiences vary - every child and every visit is different.
Read reviews on Google →From SEN communities
- Autism South East recognises Fairfield as breaking down isolation barriers for autistic people
- SEND-specific exercise and dance classes offered, affiliated with Exercise Dance Movement UK
- Sensory space and sensory-focused sessions mentioned in SEN communities
- Abilities Unleashed event celebrated children aged 5–18 with sensory, physical, intellectual disabilities
- Free SEND programmes available according to community sources
Sourced from charity/support organisation, social media, community forum, disability resource directory within the SEN community. Individual experiences vary.
When to visit
Typical busyness patterns based on Google Maps visitor data. Term-time and school holidays will vary.
Weekdays (Mon–Fri)
Typically quietest around 6am
Weekends (Sat–Sun)
Typically quietest around 7am
⏱ People typically spend 1-1.5 hours here
Potential challenges
- Staff responses may differ depending on who is on duty—some visitors have noted more helpful support from particular team members
- Some visitors have reported concerns about hygiene standards in changing rooms and water quality—you may want to check these during a quiet visit
- The pool environment can be busy at peak times, which may affect how calm your child finds it
- Limited quiet or low-stimulation spaces available if your child needs to step away
What works
- Staff who specialise in supporting people with learning disabilities are on site
- Membership options available specifically for people with learning disabilities
- Patient, thorough inductions and tours can be arranged
- Swimming lessons with trained instructors
- Generally good facilities and resources available
Facilities
Quiet / SEN sessions
Free Weekend Smiles Programmes for families with SEND are available.
Sensory environment
Hearing induction loop available suggests consideration for hearing support. Noise levels, crowding, and quiet areas not specified in content.
Tips for your visit
15 days advance booking required for most activities. Offers swimming lessons specifically developed to build confidence and life skills. Gymnastics and trampolining courses are adaptive for all abilities. Contact General Manager John Galvin (01322 421166) to discuss specific SEND needs and to clarify day pass options. Holiday opening hours differ from standard times (check website for dates).
Pricing
From £26.00 per person
Membership-based pricing. Swim membership from £26/month (swimming with 15 days advance booking). Premium membership from £51.50/month (gym, swim, classes). Premium 16-18 from £29/month. Day passes not clearly listed on website - contact venue for casual visit pricing.
Parking
Free onsite car park with accessible/disabled parking spaces available. Vehicle registration required for each visit. Accessible parking present but distance from entrance and ease of drop-off not specified in content.
Accessibility
Good physical accessibility: accessible parking, ramps for wheelchairs, accessible turnstiles, lift, accessible lockers, accessible change facilities, Changing Places toilet, wheelchair accessible equipment, pool hoist, accessible pool chair, accessible pool steps. Hearing induction loop available. Assistance dogs welcome. IFI accredited equipment.
Opening Hours
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