Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is celebrating Scottish Women and Girls in Sport Week (Monday 6th – Sunday 12th October 2025) with a brand-new campaign of short videos showcasing women who are leading the way in sport and leisure across Fife.

The films highlight swimming teachers, sport coaches, instructors, and participation managers, all of whom share how sport has shaped their lives and why they are passionate about inspiring the next generation. The campaign reflects this year’s national theme, “Celebrating Being Active”, by focusing on the confidence, resilience, and friendships that sport can bring.

Sharron McCormick, Marketing, Communications and Sales Manager, said:

“We’re delighted to use this year’s Women and Girls in Sport Week to amplify the voices of women working and thriving in our sector. Their stories will help inspire young girls and women across Fife to discover the joy of sport, the confidence it brings, and the communities it builds.”

Lindsay Thomson, Participation Manager, added:

“When girls and women play sport, they gain more than fitness, they gain confidence, courage, and skills for life. Sport builds resilience, leadership, and lasting friendships, while strengthening the communities we live in.”

While the campaign celebrates the positives, research also highlights the barriers that remain. The 2021 Scottish Health Survey found that across all age groups, fewer girls than boys meet the recommended activity levels, with the biggest gap among 13–15 year olds. Challenges include gender stereotyping, cost, caring responsibilities, a lack of media coverage, and body image concerns, with 74% of young women aged 16–30 saying body image affects participation. For older women, menopause can also impact activity, with UK research showing almost a quarter of women aged 45–54 are inactive and 30% become less active during this stage of life.

Despite these challenges, the message is clear: sport has the power to transform lives. Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is committed to supporting girls and women to get active at every stage of life. From encouraging participation and creating visible role models, to offering clear pathways and progression through programmes such as RISE Gymnastics and Learn to Swim, the organisation is helping young girls build confidence, skills and a lifelong love of sport. Support also extends later in life through initiatives such as the Active Options programme, which supports those with long-term health conditions to enjoy the benefits of being active in a safe, supportive environment.

Throughout the week, Fife Sports and Leisure Trust will be encouraging women and girls across Fife to take part by trying new activities, sharing their own stories, and joining the conversation online. Customers are also being invited to submit personal stories of transformation, overcoming barriers, or support received through local facilities, with selected entries to be featured in their Customer Highlights series.

Scottish Women and Girls in Sport Week is hosted by Active Scotland and the Scottish Government as part of a nationwide celebration. Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is proud to stand alongside governing bodies, universities, local clubs and national organisations who are also marking the week. The campaign is not only about celebrating those already involved, but about inspiring others to take their first step. By highlighting local role models and celebrating what it means to be active, Fife Sports and Leisure Trust aims to challenge stereotypes, remove barriers, and empower more women and girls to enjoy the lifelong benefits of sport.

For more information, including how to watch the videos and find activities near you, visit www.fifeleisure.org.uk/women-and-girls-in-sport.

Join the conversation on social media by following @FifeLeisure and using #SheCanSheWill.