Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is thrilled to announce a major milestone—its Health and Wellbeing programme reached over 50,000 class attendances in 2025. This achievement will be celebrated on World Health Day 2025 and highlights the programme’s growing impact in supporting individuals across Fife with long-term health conditions to lead healthier, more active lives.

A Commitment to Health and Wellbeing

As a charitable trust, Fife Sports and Leisure Trust reinvests in services that promote healthier lifestyles for all, particularly targeting groups who may face barriers to physical activity. Since the launch of Fife Sports and Leisure Trust’s cardiac rehabilitation sessions in 2000, and the expansion of the programme in 2012 to include a broader range of health conditions, the Health and Wellbeing programme has played a central role in providing accessible sports and leisure facilities.

Emma Walker, CEO, at Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, said:

“We are incredibly proud to reach this milestone, and we are excited to mark it alongside World Health Day 2025. The Health and Wellbeing programme has allowed us to support hundreds of individuals in improving their physical and mental health. The community response has been overwhelmingly positive, and we are committed to continuing this work with even greater impact.”

A Programme Designed for All Abilities

Fife Sports and Leisure Trust’s Health and Wellbeing programme supports individuals in Fife living with conditions such as cancer, arthritis, chronic pain, diabetes, cardiovascular issues, and respiratory conditions to be active. Every individual is treated as unique, with personal goals and needs taken into account. Instructors play a vital role in delivering the programme, tailoring exercises to suit each participant’s specific health condition and abilities. Their friendly, motivating personalities create an environment where participants feel welcome, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Fiona Prendergast, Health and Wellbeing Manager, at Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, said:

“The role of our instructors cannot be understated—they are the heart of this programme. They not only lead the exercises but also provide encouragement and reassurance, helping participants build the confidence to keep coming back.”

Popular Classes and Benefits to Participants

Participants benefit both physically and mentally from attending classes. Many people report feeling more confident, improved mobility, and even being able to complete everyday tasks like walking down the street without assistance. Participants also frequently highlight the positive effect on their mood and the uplifting social interactions within the classes.

Among the most attended classes is the Active Circuits programme, which has attracted many individuals seeking to improve strength, balance, and overall fitness.

One Active Circuits programme participant commented:

“Attending my class is important to me. When you live alone, contact with other people is vital. I look forward to my class every week. It gets me motivated in the morning. It’s not only exercise but being able to chat with other people too. The class helps me to move more, and I really enjoy interacting with a class of like-minded people. The classes are very sociable, as well as doing exercises, and we have all made friends, which helps in all sorts of ways.”

 

Measurable Impact and Achievements

The success of Fife Sports and Leisure Trust’s Health and Wellbeing programme is evident in the numbers, with an increasing number of participants joining each year and improvements in physical and mental health reported across the board:

  • Attendances grew from 47,186 to 55,000 from 2024–2025, reflecting the programme’s growth and the increasing demand for these services.
  • Over 737 new participants joined the Health and Wellbeing programme in 2024–2025
  • From April 2024 to February 2025, the programme received a total of 2,288 referrals—1,765 from health professionals and 523 self-referrals.
  • The top four conditions people were referred for during this period were musculoskeletal (MSK) issues, cancer, arthritis, and back problems.
  • The highest percentage of referrals were received from individuals aged 50–64, followed by those aged 75+ and then the 65–74 age group.
  • Over 300 referral partnerships have been formed across health and social care services, enhancing the accessibility and reach of the programme.

These achievements go beyond mere statistics—they represent lives changed, health improved, and a stronger, more connected community.

Collaborations and Community Impact

Fife Sports and Leisure Trust’s Health and Wellbeing programme has been strengthened through key partnerships with local health services and charities, including Maggie’s Fife, Parkinson’s UK, and Macmillan. These collaborations have been instrumental in shaping our programmes around the needs of people living with these conditions, while also helping to raise awareness of the benefits of physical activity for those affected.

Louise MacKay, Health and Wellbeing Lead, said:

“We’ve built relationships with a wide range of partners to ensure that our programmes meet the diverse needs of the community. These partnerships are essential in helping us provide holistic support for individuals facing health challenges.”

Upcoming Developments

Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is continuing to innovate, with plans to expand both the Active Aqua and Active Move programmes. These initiatives will offer even more opportunities for individuals with specific conditions to access water-based activities and tailored exercises that promote greater mobility and health.

Looking Ahead: A Healthier Fife for All

As Fife Sports and Leisure Trust celebrates World Health Day 2025, the Trust remains dedicated to breaking down barriers to health and wellbeing. The Health and Wellbeing programme will continue to play a key role in improving the quality of life for Fife’s residents, ensuring that everyone—regardless of age, background, or ability—has the opportunity to get active and live a healthier, more fulfilling life.

For more information about Fife Sports and Leisure Trust’s Health and Wellbeing programme or to get involved, please visit Health & Wellbeing – Fife Sports and Leisure Trust or contact HealthWellbeing@fifeleisure.org.uk.

Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is delighted to announce the launch of its 2025 Holiday Programme, offering a diverse range of activities to keep children active and entertained during the Easter, Summer, and October school breaks. Running across Fife, the programme provides an exciting mix of sports, games, and skill-building activities designed to promote fitness, friendship, and personal development.

This year’s programme includes athletics, football, dance, gymnastics, tennis, multi-sports, swimming camps, and much more.

Active Kids Camps

The ever-popular Active Kids Camps return for children aged 8 to 12, offering a thrilling five-day experience packed with a variety of sports, games, and activities. These camps provide the perfect opportunity for children to develop new skills, build confidence, and enjoy an unforgettable holiday adventure.

Camp Details:
  • Five-day camp – £75 per child
Available at:
  • Michael Woods Sports and Leisure Centre
  • Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre
  • Pitreavie Athletics Centre

Athletics Camps

The Athletics Holiday Sports Camps, designed for children aged 5 to 12, provide a fun and engaging environment where young athletes can develop fundamental movement skills, improve coordination, and build confidence through a variety of track and field activities. These camps cater to both beginners and those looking to refine their skills.

Camp Details:
  • One-day camp – £14.40 per child
  • Three-day camp – £43.20 per child
Available at:
  • Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre
  • Michael Woods Sports and Leisure Centre
  • Cupar Sports Centre

Football Camps

In partnership with Active Fife, the Football Holiday Camps offer an exciting opportunity for children aged 5 to 12 to develop their technique, enhance their skills, and enjoy playing in a fun and supportive environment. Open to all abilities, these camps focus on teamwork, ball control, dribbling, passing, shooting, and match play.

Camp Details:
  • One-day camp – £15 per child
  • Five-day camp – £50 per child
Available at:
  • Waterstone Crook Sports Centre
  • Michael Woods Sports and Leisure Centre

Dance Camps – NEW for 2025

For children who love to move, Dance Camps provide an energetic and creative way to stay active and express themselves. From hip-hop to jazz, freestyle to street dance, participants will explore a variety of dance styles while enjoying interactive games and activities.

Camp Details:
  • One-day camp – £14.40 per child
  • Three-day camp – £43.20 per child
Available at:
  • Duloch Leisure Centre
  • Michael Woods Sports and Leisure Centre
  • Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre

Quid-a-Kid Returns

One of the most popular initiatives, “Quid-a-Kid”, is back for 2025, giving children aged 17 and under access to football, swimming, and racquet sports—including badminton, tennis, table tennis, and squash—for just £1 per session. Parents can also participate in football and racquet sports at a discounted rate, making it a great opportunity for family-friendly fun.

How to Book

To book a place in any of the Holiday Camps or activities, parents and guardians can visit reception or call the venue directly. Spaces are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Early booking is recommended to secure a place.

For further enquiries, contact the Junior Activities Team via email at: junioractivities@fifeleisure.org.uk

For more details, including event schedules and booking information, visit: Holiday Activities – Fife Sports and Leisure Trust

Celebrating Women at Fife Sports and Leisure Trust – #AccelerateAction

To celebrate #InternationalWomensDay, we asked the incredible women across our organisation to share their thoughts on breaking barriers, empowering others, and accelerating action in their roles. Here’s what they had to say:

Kayla – Swimming Instructor

“Teaching people to swim isn’t just about technique—it’s about confidence, resilience, and knowing you can achieve anything you put your mind to. I love seeing that moment when someone realises their own strength.”

Lauren – Gym Instructor, Levenmouth Swimming Pool & Sports Centre

“As a female gym instructor, I love helping other woman become the best versions of themselves.”

Rachel – Gym Instructor, Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre

“Fitness isn’t just about lifting weights—it’s about lifting each other up. Every time I coach a member to push past their limits, I know I’m helping them discover their own strength and power.”

Angela – Gym Instructor, Carnegie Leisure Centre

“When women and girls feel supported, they’re more likely to find their place in sport and fitness, build confidence, and push their limits. Seeing that transformation is what makes this job so rewarding.”

Evelyn – Fitness Experience Lead, Head Office

“Strength is not just in the way we move and our muscles—it’s in our unity. When we workout and move together, we rise together. This International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate the power of connection, support, and the unstoppable energy we create as a team.

Lesley – Duty Manager, Beacon Leisure Centre

“Every day, I see people of all ages come together to move, laugh, and grow. My job is more than maintaining the space—it’s about creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and inspired.”

Lee – Activities Manager, Head Office

“Keeping people safe in the water and creating fun, engaging activities for our community is incredibly rewarding. I love knowing that what we do here helps people feel confident, capable, and included.”

Karen – Human Resources Manager, Head Office

“Creating opportunities for women in sport, leisure, and leadership isn’t just important—it’s essential. I’m proud to be part of an organisation that values inclusion, development, and the power of women in the workplace.”

Lana – Head of People, Head Office

“Equality isn’t just about pay—it’s about ensuring women have the support, opportunities, and recognition to succeed. At Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, we champion fair pay, career development, and an inclusive culture so women can thrive at every level, from sport and leisure to leadership.”

Vicki – Head of Finance, Head Office

“Numbers tell a story, and for me, it’s about ensuring that we make the best investments in people, facilities, and programmes. Financial decisions shape opportunities, and I’m proud to be part of an organisation that values growth and impact.”

Alma – Sales & Customer Success Lead, Head Office

“Every day, I see the difference sport and fitness make in people’s lives. Whether it’s helping someone take their first step on their fitness journey or finding the perfect membership to meet their needs, it’s rewarding to know we’re making a positive impact.”

Sharron – Marketing, Communication & Sales Manager, Head Office

“Representation matters. Through marketing and communication, we get to showcase strong, diverse women in sport and leisure, inspiring the next generation to see that they belong here too.”

Emma – CEO, Head Office

“Women belong in every space—whether that’s leading a fitness class, managing operations, or sitting at the boardroom table. At Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, we don’t just talk about inclusion—we take action to make it happen.”

How We’re Supporting Women’s Growth

We believe that true progress comes from action. That’s why we’re not just celebrating women today—we’re actively supporting, developing, and empowering them.

From fitness professionals, customer service teams, and behind-the-scenes experts, women play a vital role in shaping our success across every level of our organisation. We’re committed to breaking barriers and creating real opportunities through leadership development, mentorship, and clear career pathways—ensuring every woman has the tools and support they need to thrive.

Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Career?

We’re always looking for passionate individuals to join our team and make a difference. Whether you’re starting out, looking to progress, or stepping into leadership—visit our website to explore current vacancies and be part of a team that champions women in sport and leisure: Join Our Team – Fife Sports and Leisure Trust

#IWD2025 #AccelerateAction #FifeLeisure

Fife Council, in partnership with Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, is investing £1 million in a major sustainability upgrade at Beacon Leisure Centre. This project will significantly reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency, supporting Fife Council’s Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan 2020-2030 and the Scottish Government’s climate targets, which aim for a 75% reduction in emissions by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2045.

Investing in a Greener Future

The investment, secured through the Salix Public Sector Decarbonisation Fund for Scotland, will introduce state-of-the-art low-carbon technologies, including:

  • A pre-manufactured external plantroom housing water source heat pumps.
  • An external compound with two new air source heat pumps, covering up to 95% of the building’s heating needs.
  • Upgrades to existing plantrooms and the building management system to enhance efficiency.
  • New solar panels and an upgraded inner draught lobby to further reduce energy consumption.

As part of the wider planned maintenance and improvement works, the poolside vinyl flooring will also be replaced, and the reception area will be upgraded with a new sit/stand operator point to improve accessibility. To minimise disruption to customers we have planned for all these works to be completed in the same temporary closure period.

Temporary Partial Closure

To allow these upgrades to take place, Beacon Leisure Centre will be partially closed from Wednesday, 26th February to Wednesday, 5th March inclusive.

During this period, studio classes, group fitness, health classes, junior dance courses, and outdoor pitches will continue to operate as scheduled. However, the swimming pool, gym, health suite, and all aqua-based programmes including learn to swim will be temporarily unavailable.

Minimising Disruption

Every effort is being made to reduce inconvenience for customers. During the closure:

  • Customers will be contacted directly about affected activities.
  • A temporary check-in desk will be set up in the viewing area for pre-booked sessions only.
  • Access to the venue will be via a side fire door, with clear signage in place to direct customers.

A Commitment to Sustainability

Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is dedicated to reducing its environmental impact and enhancing energy efficiency across its facilities. These upgrades at Beacon Leisure Centre mark a significant step forward in cutting carbon emissions, reducing energy consumption, and improving the overall experience for customers.

The Trust appreciates the patience and support of customers during this time and will provide further updates as work progresses.

For more information, visit: Beacon Leisure Centre – Fife Sports and Leisure Trust

Work Inspiration Day at Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre Opens Doors for Future Careers in Leisure

On Tuesday, 12th December, Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, in partnership with local charity Fife Gingerbread, hosted a Work Inspiration Day at Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre. The event provided a unique opportunity for individuals out of work to explore careers in the leisure sector, with a focus on upskilling and building confidence to re-enter the workforce.

Fifteen participants took part in the day, which was designed to highlight the wide variety of roles within Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, including opportunities in administration, fitness instruction, customer service, and lifeguarding. The event also underscored Fife Sports and Leisure Trust’s commitment to offering meaningful employment opportunities, flexible work schedules, and a family-friendly, supportive workplace. This practical approach allowed attendees to understand the day-to-day responsibilities of different roles and discover pathways to employment within Fife Sports and Leisure Trust.

As part of the partnership with Fife Gingerbread, Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is offering four paid 6-month traineeships to participants who may require additional support in their job search. These placements aim to provide hands-on experience, build confidence, and develop skills that can help individuals progress toward long-term employment in the leisure sector.

 

Lana Turnbull, Head of People at Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, said:

“It was fantastic to see the enthusiasm from the participants. Our partnership with Fife Gingerbread has enabled us to connect with people who may not have previously considered a career in leisure and demonstrate the flexibility and opportunities the industry has to offer. Events like this are about supporting individuals to take the first step, building their confidence, and showcasing the benefits of a career with us.”

Emma Walker, CEO of Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, commented:

“We are proud to partner with Fife Gingerbread to support individuals in our community who are looking to develop new skills and find meaningful employment. Through this event, we were able to demonstrate the range of opportunities within Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, from entry-level roles to pathways for professional development. As part of this partnership, we’re delighted to offer four paid 6-month traineeships to participants who may need additional support to re-enter the workforce. We believe this will make a real difference in helping people access the tools and experience they need to thrive in this sector.”

Louise Park, Project Coordinator at Fife Gingerbread, added:

“As part of the partnership with Fife Gingerbread and Fife Council’s Life Chances opportunities, Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is offering four paid 6-month traineeships opportunities to participants who may require additional support in their job search. These paid traineeship opportunities aim to enhance employability by providing hands-on experience to build confidence and develop skills to help individuals progress toward long-term employment in the leisure sector.”

The partnership with Fife Gingerbread reflects Fife Sports and Leisure Trust’s dedication to supporting local communities and providing opportunities for individuals to gain valuable experience, practical skills, and access to employment pathways.

For more information about work placements, volunteering, and career opportunities with Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, visit: Join Our Team – Fife Sports and Leisure Trust.

Fife Sports and Leisure Trust Announces New Three-Year Agreement with Longstanding Partner RLSS UK

Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is pleased to announce a new three-year agreement with its longstanding partner, the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK). This partnership reinforces the organisation’s commitment to delivering quality lifeguarding and safety training while expanding leisure opportunities for communities across Fife.

As part of this agreement, RLSS UK will provide enhanced services and support to Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, including training opportunities, access to specialised networks, and resources for staff development. These benefits will allow the organisation to build on its existing programme, ensuring continued high standards in lifeguard training and education.

Liz Wilson, Safety and Facilities Team at Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, said:

“We are excited to build upon our partnership with RLSS UK. We are committed to maintaining its excellent rating, expanding the programme even further, and ensuring that leisure remains a safe and enjoyable experience for all.”

Richard Flavell, Head of Customer Relations, from RLSS UK, commented:

“We are delighted that Fife Sports and Leisure Trust has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering RLSS UK lifeguard qualifications for another three years. This partnership highlights the shared dedication of both organisations to expanding access to quality lifeguard training and supports RLSS UK’s mission to ensure everyone can enjoy water safely.”

Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is proud to have achieved an excellent RLSS UK Rating for its National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) training programme for the second consecutive year. The NPLQ is internationally recognised and is the UK’s most awarded lifeguard certification, with over 46,000 new trainees annually and more than 90,000 certified pool lifeguards nationwide – representing 95% of the UK’s pool lifeguards.

Upcoming NPLQ Courses for 2025

As part of the new agreement, Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is excited to announce upcoming NPLQ courses for aspiring lifeguards in 2025. The NPLQ is a 36-hour, 5-day course and costs £280. Please phone the respective venue to book:

Course Dates and Booking Information:
  • February Half-Term:
    • Lochgelly High School – Wednesday 12th to Sunday 16th February
    • Call 01383 602305 to book.
  • Easter:
    • Inverkeithing High School Community Use – Monday 7th to Friday 11th April
    • Call 01383 602349 to book.
    • Lochgelly High School – Monday 14th to Friday 18th April
    • Call 01383 602305 to book.
  • Summer:
    • Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre – Monday 7th to Friday 11th July
    • Call 01592 583306 to book.
    • Carnegie Leisure Centre – Monday 4th to Friday 8th August
    • Call 01383 602304 to book.
  • October Half-Term:
    • Cupar Sports Centre – Monday 13th to Friday 17th October
    • Call 01334 659324 to book.

To learn more about Fife Sports and Leisure Trust’s training courses and opportunities, go to: Current Vacancies – Fife Sports and Leisure Trust

For more information on the NPLQ course by RLSS UK, please visit: National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) | Lifeguard Course by RLSS UK

Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is pleased to share its 2023-2024 Performance Review, highlighting a year of growth, innovation, and community impact. Fife Sports and Leisure Trust has made significant progress in providing a diverse range of physical activity opportunities designed to enhance the quality of life for Fife’s residents and beyond. From supporting grassroots sports to offering group fitness classes and improving access to gyms, swimming, and health suites, Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is committed to promoting active lifestyles and strengthening its role as a vital part of the community’s physical and social wellbeing.

A key focus for the Fife Sports and Leisure Trust was the ‘Back to 100’ initiative, which aimed to return participation rates at its venues to pre-Covid levels. Aligned with the Fife Sports and Leisure Trust’s Business Plan, this initiative set clear Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to drive engagement. Through collective collaboration, Fife Sports and Leisure Trust achieved an impressive 2,399,135 attendances, a significant step towards its ambitious targets.

Over the past year, Fife Sports and Leisure Trust introduced a new, more flexible membership structure, making it easier for people of all ages and backgrounds to access its facilities. The fitness programme was expanded to offer over 250 weekly classes, while the health and wellbeing programme, which supports people with long-term health conditions, grew to deliver more than 90 weekly classes. The junior activities programme was also expanded, with the introduction of Rise Gymnastics in partnership with Scottish Gymnastics. Additionally, due to the continued excellence of the Learn to Swim programme, Fife Sports and Leisure Trust was awarded Scottish Water’s ‘Swimming Provider of the Year’ in 2023.

Key highlights from the 2023-2024 Performance Review:

  • Venue Attendance: A total of 2,533,803 overall attendances, an increase from 2,277,379 in the previous year.
  • New Membership Structure: The successful launch of a new membership programme saw record-breaking numbers, with over 15,634 members – achieving 114% of target.
  • Venue Improvements: Significant refurbishments across multiple venues, including new 3G synthetic pitches, gym upgrades, and expanded fitness studios. Fife Sports and Leisure Trust also commenced the £7.8m renovation of Cowdenbeath Leisure Centre, marking a significant investment in future.
  • Health and Wellbeing: Over 2,100 referrals to health programmes and more than 100 weekly health classes delivered.
  • Learn to Swim: Continued growth and excellence in the Learn to Swim programme, earning the Trust the ‘Swimming Provider of the Year 2023’ award.
  • Junior Programmes: The introduction of Rise Gymnastics and expanded junior activities led to a 3.28% increase in participation.

Please note that these figures reflect performance as of March 31, 2024. Since then, many of these numbers have continued to grow, further contributing to Fife Sports and Leisure Trust’s success.

Emma Walker, Chief Executive of Fife Sports & Leisure Trust, reflected on the year’s successes:

“This past year saw us implement our ‘Back to 100’ campaign to achieve a number of ambitious goals. Its focus was on re-engaging people with our centres and increasing footfall, while developing our products and services to deliver what our customers want and need. Going forward, we will work together with Fife Council, and other partners, to deliver the growth and innovation required to meet the challenges of the future and enable as many Fife residents as possible to enjoy the benefits of participating in physical activity and sport.”

Jeph Hamilton, Chair of Fife Sports & Leisure Trust, highlighted the organisation’s broader impact:

Fife Sports & Leisure Trust is a crucial part of Fife’s social infrastructure. What the Fife Sports and Leisure Trust does is more than the provision of physical activity opportunities; we help to tackle health inequalities, promote healthier lifestyles, and bring communities together. From our health and wellbeing programme to our revised membership introduced this past year, we aim to contribute real social value and make a positive difference to the diverse communities of Fife.

As Fife Sports and Leisure Trust moves forward, its focus will remain on expanding access to high-quality leisure and fitness opportunities while continuing to modernise services. Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is committed to working in partnership with Fife Council, NHS Fife, and local community organisations to ensure its offerings evolve to meet the changing needs of Fife’s diverse communities.

For more information on Fife Sports and Leisure Trust and to access the full Performance Review, please visit Fife Sports and Leisure Trust 2023 – 2024 Performance Review.

Enhancing Community Health and Supporting Individuals with Long-Term Health Conditions Across Fife

Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is dedicated to enhancing the physical, mental, and social wellbeing of our community. Our health and wellbeing programmes are designed for individuals with long-term health conditions. These programmes provide high-quality classes to improve mobility, manage pain, regulate blood pressure, control weight, and address various health concerns. Our ultimate goal is to empower individuals to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives and create a supportive environment that encourages social connections, which are essential for overall wellbeing.

A Person-Centred Approach: The Active Options Programme  

Our flagship programme, Active Options, offers personalised physical activity and wellbeing activities that are carefully adjusted to each participant’s abilities and needs. Our instructors, who are both motivators and supporters, guide individuals on their health journeys, breaking down barriers to ensure active and engaged participation. By prioritising a person-centred approach, we ensure that our services meet the unique needs of every individual, making a lasting impact on their health journey.

Commitment to Community Health

Our team leads over 100 health and wellbeing classes weekly, supporting more than 1,600 participants on their journey towards better health. In the past year, our programme has welcomed over 827 new participants, reflecting the growing interest in our programmes and their impact. Attendance has soared from 36,455 to 47,186, underscoring the success of our efforts to enhance community health.

We recently moved from temporary, funded posts to permanent, internally funded roles within our Health and Well-being team. This shift demonstrates our commitment to supporting the health of our community in a sustainable and lasting way. By creating permanent roles, we are better positioned to introduce more targeted interventions and support.

A middle-aged woman with short hair is participating in group exercise at a fitness centre. She is wearing a compression sleeve on her left arm.

 

Enhancing Accessibility: Referral Pathways and the “Together We Can” Campaign

A key achievement has been the expansion of referral pathways, including the introduction of self-referral options, making it easier for individuals to access the support they need. Furthermore, the integration of the Health and Wellbeing programme into our new Club Membership offers participants access to additional benefits, such as health suites, low-impact classes, and swimming pools.

To raise awareness of our programmes and promote holistic health care, we launched the “Together We Can” campaign, aimed at health professionals, social care teams, and organisations within the third and independent sectors. The campaign has not only increased referrals and participation but also strengthened our role as a leader in promoting health and wellbeing. By sharing real-life success stories, we’ve demonstrated the benefits of our programmes.

Evidence of Impact

The numbers speak for themselves:

  • 221,000 overall attendances: Our classes have seen impressive engagement, reflecting both trust in our offerings and their impact on the communities health and wellbeing.
  • 300 health and social care professionals: We collaborate with professionals, ensuring that our programmes complement therapeutic care, resulting in better outcomes for participants.
  •  827 new participants: A growing number of individuals are recognising the value of our offerings, reflected in our expanding community.  

Participant Testimonials

Active Circuit Participant – “Attending my class is important to me. When you live alone, contact with other people is vital. I look forward to my class every week. It gets me motivated in the morning. It’s not only exercise but being able to chat with other people too. The class helps me to move more, and I really enjoy interacting with a class of like-minded people. The classes are very sociable, as well as doing exercises, and we have all made friends, which helps in all sorts of ways.”

Active Strength and Balance Participant – “Attending classes helps me both mentally and physically. I get to meet other people and get some exercise. It is my only trip out on my own each week. The class motivates me to exercise, chat, and socialise with others. It is a weekly activity that I enjoy and look forward to attending. I enjoy attending classes and learning exercises that I can continue doing at home. Hopefully, this will improve my stability and walking and help to build up my muscles in different parts of my body.”

Counterweight Participant “My weight loss journey had been a series of attempts and disappointments. I owe my discovery of the Counterweight programme to my GP, who recommended it to me. Initially, I was sceptical, assuming it would be another programme dictating what to eat and how to exercise. Now, I realise how mistaken I was. My instructor taught me how to make positive, sustainable changes in my life to reach my weight loss goals. What sets this programme apart is its emphasis on small, manageable adjustments in diet and activity, which has been a revelation for me. Counterweight has been life-changing for me. My physical health has significantly improved, with no more back or knee pain. Moreover, my mental wellbeing has received a boost, resulting in increased energy, happiness, and motivation.”

Case Studies

Watch the below videos to discover how our Active Options programme benefit our participants’ health and wellbeing.

A Lasting Impact: Collaboration and Partnership

Our partnerships with Fife Health and Social Care, Fife Council, and numerous third-sector organisations have been essential in delivering impactful services. With over 300 referral partners, we work collaboratively to ensure our programmes meet the health and wellbeing needs of our community.

To make the referral process as easy as possible, we’ve developed high-quality resources and marketing packs for our partners. These materials are designed to streamline the referral process and ensure that both health professionals and participants can easily access the support they need.

We recently launched a dedicated area on our website for health professionals, providing them with a secure login to access valuable resources, referral tools, and ongoing support. This platform further enhances collaboration by equipping professionals with everything they need to integrate our services into their care pathways.

By maintaining these relationships and expanding our partnerships, we are confident in our ability to deliver sustainable, impactful health interventions that address both local and national health priorities.

For more information about our health and wellbeing programmes, please visit: Health & Wellbeing – Fife Sports and Leisure Trust

To learn more about our Together We Can campaign and partnerships, please visit: Together We Can

For more information about the Seriously Social campaign or the Seriously Social Awards, which support people over profit for social good, connect communities, and help individuals become healthier, happier, and more creative regardless of age or ability, visit: Seriously Social about Public Leisure and Culture. 

#SeriouslySocial #Health 

Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is honoured to support Suicide Prevention Awareness Week 2024, an important annual campaign running from 9th to 15th September, which includes World Suicide Prevention Day on 10th September.

In collaboration with partners such as Fife Health and Social Care Partnership Health Promotion Service, Samaritans, NHS Fife, Fife Council, Fife Voluntary Action, Families in Trauma & Recovery, and the Scottish Government, Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is dedicated to enhancing awareness and providing support throughout this critical week.

The campaign’s theme is “Creating Hope Through Action”. It highlights the powerful impact of our actions in fostering hope and strengthening prevention efforts. During Suicide Prevention Awareness Week, our collective aim is to inspire hope by promoting support through the values of Time, Space, and Compassion.

Fife Sports and Leisure Trust remains committed to promoting staff wellbeing by offering confidential counselling services, alongside a team of dedicated volunteers known as Mental Health First Aiders, who provide a discreet listening ear. By encouraging open dialogue, the Trust ensures its employees can discuss mental health freely, secure in the knowledge that they will receive empathy and support.

Lana Turnbull, Head of People at Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, emphasises the importance of this initiative:

“Working alongside our partners, our goal is to show that support can be as simple as dedicating your time, creating a safe space for conversation, and demonstrating genuine compassion. By fostering a supportive atmosphere within our organisation, we aim to help employees recognise mental health as a vital part of overall wellbeing and to understand that seeking help is a sign of strength, not a weakness.”

Fife Sports and Leisure Trust invites everyone to participate in raising awareness during Suicide Prevention Awareness Week and to extend support to those who may be experiencing mental health challenges.

For more information and resources, visit: Suicide prevention in Fife | NHS Fife

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