Rock Up & Ride is a Scottish Cycling funded project delivered by Sport Aberdeen’s community sport team, based out of its Aulton Cycle Hub (Raymond Kelly Pavilion) in Seaton.
Since February 2024, Sport Aberdeen – in partnership with Sustrans – has been running free public one-hour led rides on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, setting off from its cycle hub.
Typically, the rides will go along the beach front and around the local Seaton Park, both picturesque areas close to the cycle hub. Bikes and helmets can be provided for those who require, helping to break down barriers so that participants don’t require their own their own bike to come along.
A strong focus of the project has been on engaging with participants from some of the most deprived areas including Northfield and St Machar.
The project supports The Scottish Government’s 2030 Active Travel Vision – where walking, wheeling and cycling will be the most popular mode of transport for shorter everyday journeys.
The demand for the led rides was initiated through speaking to partners and local community groups, understanding that many people do not feel confident or safe cycling on the roads.
The sessions are designed to be delivered in a relaxed and sociable environment, aiming to provide an accessible pathway to recreational cycling, or simply capitalising on the various health benefits of cycling outdoors.
Everyone is welcome to join the rides, as they are paced to match the speed of the least confident rider, and enquiries are also encouraged from those wishing to learn to ride and then progress onto the group led rides.
The project’s emphasis is on building confidence for cycling and enjoying the benefits of gentle outdoor exercise in a social group.
Since launching in February 2024, there have been:
- 28 led rides with 76 participants (38 distinct participants)
- 3 adult cycle confidence sessions delivered with 6 participants (3 distinct participants)
- 8 adult learn to ride sessions with 10 participants (2 distinct participants)
- 4 family sessions during school holidays – Family Learning families through Aberdeen City Council with 36 participants (19 distinct participants), from these 3 Mum’s have become regular Thursday morning led ride attendees.
- 6 cycle safety sessions for New Scots, with 52 distinct participants
Due to demand, bespoke rides have also been organised for mental health groups, menopause groups and for youth work during summer activity groups.
Partnership working has been key to the success of the project, with strong links established with Aberdeen City Council’s Family Learning Department, Community and Learning Development via the Healthy Minds project, and Aberdeen City Health and Social Care Partnership (ACHSCP)’s Wellbeing Coordinators and their Mighty Oaks Menopause support group.
Asylum & Refugee Care (AARC) and Grampian Regional Equality Council (GREC) through their language café have helped to promote the work of the project to New Scots and those new to the city, whilst Fersands and Fountain Community Project has linked in local youths to the project.
During the Easter and Summer school holidays, the community sport team as part of the Rock Up & Ride project worked in partnership with Aberdeen City Council’s Family Learning department, at Bramble Brae Primary School and Aulton Cycle Hub, to provide children’s Learn to Ride sessions, as well as covering how to ride safely as a family.
Feedback overall has been hugely positive.
Charlotte (parent) said: “Thursdays I have my wee bike ride and that’s for me.”
Another participant Patty said: “I joined rock up and ride on Thursday mornings with other mums. I haven’t been on bike in years but it never took me long to get back into it, it was a nice cycle along the beach and longer one to Seaton park but I managed. We all got on and had a nice laugh and took some lovely photos of cycling.”
A parent Suzy said: “I didn’t think I’d be able to do it but, it’s amazing you don’t forget. My new goal is this time next year to have both my kids riding like this with me.”
To ensure the project’s longevity, Sport Aberdeen will look to secure further funding in the future to deliver more Rock Up & Ride cycling sessions in more areas of the city to broaden the project’s impact.
In addition, the community sport team are adaptable and will offer sessions upon request – examples of this have included Learn to Ride and adult on-road cycle confidence sessions. Sport Aberdeen hopes to deliver more of these going forward.
To ensure the project’s sustainability, Sport Aberdeen actively promotes recruitment for volunteers who wish to become ride leaders, or volunteers to assist with bike maintenance with full training provided.
Award-winning charity Sport Aberdeen is in the running to be crowned Scottish Swimming’s ‘Learn to Swim Provider of the Year’ after making it to the final three in the shortlist.
The Scottish Swimming annual awards evening will this year take place at Aberdeen Hilton TECA on Saturday 21st September, providing a great opportunity for the aquatics community to come together and share their successes.
Sport Aberdeen’s award entry focused on its high quality learn to swim programme – with lessons available from babies all the way to adults and those with a fear of water (aquaphobia) – and its reputable pathway for those looking to progress into swimming clubs.
At present, Sport Aberdeen provides swimming lessons to over 5,500 children every week across six city-wide pools.
The charity also offers a substantial additional support needs lesson programme and a pathway for keen individuals who can start as aquatics volunteer helpers and can then progress through the necessary training to become aquatics teachers.
One Sport Aberdeen employee Shelley Milne was awarded the Programme Champion Award in 2023 for her work as a Young Ambassador.
Dianne Breen, Coached Programmes Manager at Sport Aberdeen, said: “We’re passionate about ensuring that as many people as possible have access to our excellent aquatics programme, so they can learn essential skills in an inclusive and supportive environment.
“We are delighted to be a finalist in this year’s Scottish Swimming Awards in the ‘Learn to Swim Provider of the Year’ category.
“To have this recognised by being a finalist is so rewarding, and we look forward to celebrating with everyone at the ceremony in Aberdeen later this month.”
Euan Lowe, CEO at Scottish Swimming, said: “Each year we’re blown away by the dedication of the excellent local authorities, leisure trusts and aquatic providers that are all working towards the common goal of teaching this vital life skill across the country.
“Not only that but we’re especially fortunate to see first hand the brilliant work that those shortlisted have put into delivering lessons at the highest level and ensuring that children are becoming safer in the water. Congratulations to Sport Aberdeen on being shortlisted, and for your dedication to the Framework.”
For further information on Sport Aberdeen’s Learn to Swim programme – only £25 per month – then visit here or apply for lessons today.
Sport Aberdeen’s community sport team launched the ‘Football for All’ project in October 2023, to deliver a targeted programme for New Scots and refugees in Aberdeen to participate in weekly five-a-side football sessions.
It is a first of its kind project for the city, using the power of sport and physical activity as a catalyst for positive change.
The project is designed to fulfil aims and objectives as set out by the Scottish Government’s ‘New Scots Refugee Integration Strategy: 2024’. The strategy has six outcomes, with the project primarily focusing on ensuring that ‘New Scots can pursue their ambitions through education, employment, culture and leisure activities in diverse communities.’
Football for All was initiated through successful partnership working with local charity Asylum and Refugee Care (AARC) – the founder Jane reached out to Sport Aberdeen for support to get New Scots involved in sport and physical activity.
Sport Aberdeen’s Lead Community Sports Hub Coordinator attended a weekly event called the language café, hosted at the Arts Centre by the Grampian Regional Equalities Council (GREC). By attending this event, the feedback generated was overwhelmingly around New Scots asking for football.
The two-hour football sessions take place on a weekly basis at Fives Football, with monthly 11-a-side matches taking place at Aberdeen Sports Village.
The 11-a-side matches give New Scots the chance to join football teams, with scouts from local teams present to sign players at amateur level clubs including Glentanar.
Several participants have received some form of football clothing provision through Kit for All – a project Sport Aberdeen’s Active Schools team are involved in, helping individuals to access recycled and pre-loved sports kits. Through a partnership with Aberdeen Football Club Community Trust (AFCCT), football shirts from a previous season were donated too.
Every week, there are new attendees and the project has continued to grow, with an average of 30 attendees per session.
Communication with the target audience is through posters distributed in hotels, the community sport team attending relevant events and direct emails to participants.
Despite the language barrier, it was recognised that sport is the universal language. Football is a ‘safe space’ and protected time for the New Scots.
In a short space of time, the project has had an immense impact. It has had:
- Over 100 distinct participants
- 65 pairs of football boots provided
- Over 80 attendees given full kit (jumper, t-shirt, shorts, socks)
- 80 hours of free football since October 2023
- Over 10 different nationalities attended
Frequent qualitative feedback from participants is used to evaluate the project’s success.
A regular attendee said: “When I am in the hotel, I always feel stressed. There’s lots to think about like waiting for documents and not having work. A lot of the people in the hotel have seen some horrible things from back home.
“However, we all come here to play, we laugh and feel ourselves.
“When I exercise I feel good, all the stress leaves my body even for just a few hours. When I am lying in bed I struggle to feel happy. Getting to come out and play, I go back feeling so much better and more myself.
“I have made lots of friends coming here, including the Scottish guys who organise the football. When someone comes along angry or upset, they always cheer you up and make you feel better.
“We all feel very lucky and excited playing football.”
Another regular attendee said: “The football has been fantastic, it has been really good to get out of the hotel and do something different.
“A lot of us have traumas from where we came from, being able to come here on a Wednesday helps all those memories wash away. It’s a great escape.
“I am very grateful to Joe, Kyle and everyone who organises this. It’s a great idea and has helped for my physical health and mentally.
“Every so often we play full 11-a-side games and there are scouts from local teams who pick up players. I was chosen by Glentanar which I was very happy with.”
A local worker for the Asylum and Refugee Care (AARC) charity said: “Since the start of the Football for All project, I have been observing the atmosphere within the hotels and I have witnessed a significant change in it.
“I’ve noticed that the individuals taking part in football every week appear happier and more confident. It seems that having a regular activity every week, something they enjoy, is providing them with a sense of purpose whilst being accommodated within the hotels – this is changing the overall atmosphere of the hotel.
“The men taking part are always very keen to go every week – they verbally express how much they enjoy it and are eager to sign up.”
To ensure Football for All is sustainable, Sport Aberdeen’s Commercial Services Manager will aim to secure a corporate sponsor as at present, the project has been made possible through funding received from Aberdeen City Health and Social Care Partnership (ACHSCP)’s Health Improvement Fund.
To scale the project, the team will offer new opportunities such as the introduction of a football coach who will attend Fives Football on a 4-week pilot and those who wish to get some extra support can access it, but there is no pressure to do so.
Hermes is a prestigious football club in Aberdeen, so the team hopes to get backing from them which would be a huge milestone.
The community sport team has trialled other projects using the same delivery model and communication methods as Football for All, including social Boccia sessions in an area of deprivation in the city and New Scots cricket sessions at its Get active @ Kincorth venue.
Sport Aberdeen’s CEO is keen to refurbish and create more 3G football pitches in Aberdeen, so if this is brought to life, the project could grow and more communities could be invited to play football such as young people living in SIMD areas – for example.
Last year, Sport Aberdeen Fitness member Kevin Hendry’s personal fitness challenge saw him reach Everest Base Camp as part of an 18-day trip.
With an interest in sport starting from an early age when he played football and basketball, Kevin completed the Baker Hughes 10k in his late thirties which was his first running race. Since then, he has cycled the length of Vietnam in two weeks and cycled Mongolia.
As an ambitious go-getter, he set his sights on his next challenge for 2024…
“Every year, I try to give myself a challenge, it’s usually something physical whether that be cycling or trekking.
“This year I was doing other stuff; I wasn’t going on an adventurous holiday. So, I thought to myself what am I going to do?”
The 61-year-old explained that he used Tanita body composition scales for the first time in January 2024 at Get active @ Jesmond:
“I was looking through the reading and thought maybe this is my challenge right in front of me. I looked at my bone mass, my body weight, and all the information as part of the analysis. I chose to focus on trying to improve my readings throughout the year.
“My goal was to reduce my weight (mainly body fat) and make myself leaner.
“I’ve been going to the gym for years and years so I know the equipment, I know how to use it and the process to go through. I wasn’t really too educated in the dietary side of things so I got myself an external online PT Ryan Stott to help with my nutrition.
“I was given a food plan to stick to – I don’t use the word ‘diet’ – that’s just a period of time then you go back to your old habits. I was also given exercises to follow.”
Kevin spoke about the importance of consistency whilst implementing changes to his diet.
“In the beginning, it was tough. The food plan was tough, it wasn’t tough as in I was hungry or feeling like I was depriving myself, it was just changing the times I ate and what I’d eat. My PT would remind me to keep going and be consistent.
“I started using Tanita monthly, it would usually be at the start of the month and first thing in the morning before eating or drinking anything. I saw the progress coming every month and I felt great!
“I felt lean, my clothes fit better, I didn’t feel sluggish, I felt healthier.”
Speaking about the frequency of his gym workouts, Kevin said:
“Four one-hour sessions a week is what I was doing in the gym at Get active @ Jesmond to achieve my results.
“The facilities are fantastic, it’s spot on. There’s lots of new kit going in, it’s absolutely brilliant. A great selection of free weights and machines, and a nice mix of people who go to the gym there.
“I get motivation from the people who go, including the older people. It’s great to see such a good mix of ages and abilities – this all adds to the atmosphere.
“The staff are so friendly and helpful, it’s a good place with a good vibe.”
Talking through his typical gym routine, Kevin stated:
“Sometimes I’d go first thing in the morning at 6am and be finished by 7am and I’d be coming out of there so awake and feeling good and looking forward to my day.
“I usually prefer going to the gym in the morning, so I’d be done my exercises for the day but had the rest of the day to focus on my job or whatever else I was doing.
“It becomes a habit, it doesn’t have to be rigid – I would mix up my schedule between going at 6am or 6pm depending on what was happening in my life at the time.
“Most of my training was using free weights, not too many machines. And I’d always finish with a bit of cardio for 5-10 minutes.”
As someone with determination and a hunger for progress, Kevin said:
“I like to look at my training with a positive attitude – I get to go to the gym, rather than I’ve got to do this.
“Whatever weight I was doing one week, I’d be trying to up it for the next, or try to stay longer on the treadmill.
“I’d never push myself to the point where I wouldn’t enjoy the gym, it was always enjoyable and I felt a strong sense of achievement.
“As the weight came off and my body fat reduced, that motivated me to push on that little bit more.
“I mentioned it earlier but I think that being consistent is key. There were some weeks I’d do more than four sessions in the gym depending on what was happening that week in my life, but I’d never do less than four.”
Above: Kevin on his Mount Everest trek
Kevin’s results using the Tanita scales improved over 9 months:
“On 5th January 2024 I weighed 98.5kg, my body fat percentage was 29.4% and my metabolic age was 70.
“By 1st August 2024, my weight was 86.9kg, my body fat percentage reduced to 20.1% and my metabolic age was down to 46!
“I am really pleased with what I’ve done but there were sacrifices at the time, some were small but they made a big difference.
“But now, I’m not sacrificing any part of my life. This is my life.
“It is engrained in my routine now to go to the gym four times a week.”
“There’s one quote that really resonates with me: there are 24 hours in a day, you work 8, you sleep 7 which = 15 hours, so there is no excuse not to have 1 hour for the gym.
“Everybody can spare 1 hour; you would make time in your life to watch TV.
“The positive mental impact is equally as rewarding. It’s such a positive thing going to the gym, if you apply yourself and are consistent, you will see the results.
“So, get your big boy pants on, have a cup of tea, and crack on.”
Kevin also implemented other changes that he felt would have a positive impact on his health:
“I’ve had no bread since January, only bagels. I haven’t eaten chocolate for almost two years! I was a choc-a-holic but now, I don’t miss it.
“I decided to take a small step and have no chocolate for a day, which lead into a week, then a fortnight.
“The fear kicked in after that, I didn’t want to lose those 14 days I had achieved, I was determined to keep it going.
“As of 16th August, I was at 625 days with no chocolate, and at 291 days with no ice cream, butter or margarine and I feel loads better for it!”
As well as looking after his physical and mental health, making memories and ticking off bucket list items is something which is really important to Kevin. He said:
“If the day comes that I’m in a care home I’m looking back on my life, I want to get my memory box out with my Passport and celebrate all the places I’ve been and worked and look at the photos I’ve taken.
“For example, my trip cycling around Mongolia.
“Parts are physically and mentally tough. You know you won’t enjoy every part of it. Sleeping in tents and hostels, not washing for 2-3 days, or brushing your teeth.
“It makes you appreciate what you have back here all the more. There’s no better feeling than when you’re on the flight home knowing that you’ve done it.
“Whether you liked it all or not, YOU DID IT. It is such a sense of achievement!”
Looking ahead to the future, Kevin hasn’t quite decided what his next challenge will be:
“I have a couple of ideas – I fancy something in the USA, either cycling or trekking. And I’d love to go to the North or South Pole.
“I realise now that I have more time behind me than in front of me, so keeping physically fit is so important to me. I’m not going to live until I’m 122, so I need to make every day count.
“I always flip things to be positive. Life has so many sides, a fifty pence coin has two sides, if you don’t like one side then flip it over. There is no such thing as failure, everything is a learning curve.”
If you feel inspired by Kevin’s story and are ready to unlock a healthier, happier you – then take advantage of Sport Aberdeen’s current Fitness membership offer. Join in September and get October free. Use code OCTFREE to redeem here.
64-year-old Margaret Walker who lives in Kennethmont, Aberdeenshire started out on Sport Aberdeen’s Aquaphobia programme in May 2023 to conquer her fears of water.
She tells us all about her experience on the programme and why others should get involved.
“My fear of water started from an accident when I was younger, I went backwards and fell under the water at Bon Accord Baths.
“I can remember from my school days that people who say ‘just get in the water, it’s fun’ or they’d tell me I was ‘being stupid’ and shouldn’t be scared.
“About 10 years ago, I worked at the former Patio Hotel located on the Beach Boulevard. The Leisure Manager there at the time offered me to do one-to-one sessions but I still didn’t want to.
“It was in April 2023 last year that I decided to sign up for Sport Aberdeen’s aquaphobia programme and then I started going along in May.
“I was absolutely petrified, and my stomach was a bag of nerves before my first session. I’ll admit, I burst into tears the first time getting into the water.
“The teacher took it very slowly with me, I started with big strides to get me used to moving in the water and then I felt I was ready for the next step along.
“Now I can take my arm bands off and have my head under water, I was even able to do a bit of breast stroke.
“What a difference! When I was younger, I wouldn’t even let water go over my face in the shower – in the class, the instructors teach you how to breathe in the water. Now I know how to push and glide towards the side of the pool.
“Before when me and my husband John would go on holiday, I would never go in the water. However, in September 2023 on holiday in Lanzarote, my husband was so shocked to see me in the pool… I did it!
“I do sometimes wish I could have done the lessons sooner, but this felt like the right time for me – I knew in myself that this time, I was ready.
“Now I feel so chuffed and proud of myself. I’m able to move away from the side and splash around, and I love floating on my back. I’d never have been able to do that before.
“My family have been very encouraging along the way, so I have to thank them.
Above: Margaret Walker at the swimming pool at Get active @ Northfield.
“My word of advice for anyone looking to start is to bite the bullet, don’t let the fear hold you back. Be ready and want to do it.
“I can tell you from experience that the fear in your head is worse than what the actual thing is. Once you get past that first step, it gets easier from there.
“It’s such a nice group of ladies at the class, we are all similar in age which helps, and they are all really lovely people. I have been attending the Tuesday class every week since May.
“I first discovered the class when I saw Jenny Gillon’s article in the newspaper around this time last year.
“I’m pleased to say that I finished the aquaphobia programme on 30th January 2024 and I hope at some point to take up adult swimming lessons closer to home.”
If you feel inspired by Margaret’s story, you can find out more about Sport Aberdeen’s Aquaphobia programme here.
Margaret’s story was also covered in the Press & Journal online here.
Sport Aberdeen is delighted to be a finalist in the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion category of the esteemed 2024 ukactive Awards.
The occasion marks one of the most anticipated moments in the physical activity sector’s calendar, being the biggest awards ceremony of its kind.
Entries were received from organisations, operators and suppliers across the public and private sectors.
Sport Aberdeen’s entry focused on its Football for All programme – a unique and innovative targeted project for New Scots in Aberdeen to participate in weekly five-a-side football sessions.
Football for All is designed to fulfil aims and objectives as set out by the Scottish Government’s ‘New Scots Refugee Integration Strategy: 2024’.
The strategy has six outcomes and the main one the project focuses on is to ensure ‘New Scots can pursue their ambitions through education, employment, culture and leisure activities in diverse communities.’
So far, the project has had:
- Over 100 distinct participants
- 65 pairs of football boots provided
- Over 80 attendees given full kit (jumper, t-shirt, shorts, socks)
- 80 hours of free football since October 2023
- Over 10 different nationalities attended
Mark Pain, Community Sport Manager at Sport Aberdeen, said: “It’s great news for us to be shortlisted in the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion category.
“We’re proud of the impact that Football for All has had on New Scots so far, giving participants a sense of self and community, as well as providing a safe space to enjoy a fun sport. Some players have even signed for amateur teams now.
“Jane who works for the Asylum and Refugee Care (AARC) charity commented that the individuals taking part in football every week appear happier and more confident.
“Congratulations to the other finalists and we look forward to celebrating in October at the ceremony.”
Huw Edwards, CEO of ukactive, said: “This year we have seen the ukactive Awards reach a new level of competitiveness, giving our judges their toughest task yet to choose from such a fantastic range of entries and nominations.
“The ukactive Awards are the perfect opportunity to acknowledge the incredible work that individuals, organisations and partners do every day to keep the nation active and healthy and we can’t wait to welcome as many people as possible to celebrate with us on the night.”
Ali Beckman, STA’s President and the headline sponsor for the ukactive Awards, said: “This year’s finalists have all shown true innovation and creativity and should be congratulated. Their achievements and what they have done to help promote and advance the physical activity agenda is incredible, and we wish them all the best of luck through the second stage of the ukactive Awards.”
The full list of finalists can be found on ukactive’s website here. Winners will be announced at the ceremony taking place on Thursday 3 October 2024 at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham.
Local 21-year-old Aberdonian swimmer Toni Shaw recently travelled to Paris for the 2024 Paralympics to compete in the Women’s 400m freestyle S9.
Taking a moment to look back at where it all began, she said:
“My swimming journey all started out with Sport Aberdeen when I was very young as I went to swimming lessons with my older sister Alex at the Northfield Swimming Pool.
“After progressing through all the Learn to Swim levels, I was offered the opportunity to join a club.
“I joined Cults Otters, where my love for swimming fully started. I loved being in the pool and being around my friends at training!”
Toni’s love for the water and talent continued to flourish. She said:
“After being part of Cults Otters for many years being coached by Liz Riley, I moved up a level to COAST (now known as the University of Aberdeen Swim Team) and I have done some training and competing with them, as well as with another swimming club too.”
Following her recent trip to the Paralympics, Toni had suffered with an injury at the beginning of the year – and finished fifth in the Women’s 400m freestyle S9 at Paris La Defense Arena.
She said: “I was excited and nervous for Paris. It was such an honour to get to race there!
“Sadly, I injured my back at the start of the year so my training was a bit disrupted but I gave it everything in my first event in Paris.
“There’s a lot of pressure at big competitions and I do get very nervous, but speaking to family and friends really helps me and just having confidence in all the training I’ve done.
“My advice I’d give to anyone new to swimming would be to just enjoy it!
“Swimming has given me so many amazing friends and memories and I owe so much to the sport.”
At only 21 years old, Toni is an inspiration to all swimmers and has achieved incredible things in her career so far.
Sport Aberdeen wishes her the best of luck in her upcoming para swimming events in Paris:
- Women’s 100m Freestyle – S9 on 4th September
- Women’s 200m Individual Medley – SM9 on 5th September
If Toni’s story has given you a burst of motivation, then why not apply for Sport Aberdeen’s Learn to Swim programme today – with spaces available from preschool up to adults.
Click here to find out more.
Sport Aberdeen is working in Aberdeen to #KeepThePromise by using a child-centred approach to its work, ensuring young people are the voice of the support they receive.
Sport Aberdeen works with the aims of The Promise in mind when delivering its innovative SPACE (Supported Physical Activity for Care Experienced) programme that positively shapes the lives of care-experienced children through the transformative power of connection, sport and physical activity.
The Promise reflects Scotland’s commitment that all care experienced children and young people will grow up loved, safe and respected. The promise is built on five foundations: family, voice, care, people and scaffolding; all of these are embedded within Sport Aberdeen’s SPACE programme.
The young people supported through SPACE get to choose the activities they participate in, with some opting for a ‘walk and talk’ in nature and another choosing horse riding lessons. Whatever they choose, taking part in sport and physical activity will enable them to build connections, feel a sense of achievement and benefit their physical health and mental wellbeing.
Katrina Carr, Lead Active Schools Coordinator at Sport Aberdeen, explains the essence of the programme: “Our SPACE programme offers one-to-one or small group activities to support care-experienced young people either during or out with the school day.
“Partnerships are a crucial part of the programme, we work closely with Virtual School Aberdeen, Aberdeen City Council’s Social Work department and other third sector organisations in the city.
“We’re also looking at how we support their siblings, families, caregivers and their wider support networks to become more active. Essentially, we use sport and physical activity to create positive behaviour change.”
Kim McRobbie, Active Schools and EDI Manager, echoes this sentiment, highlighting the holistic approach of the programme: “From an organisational perspective, it’s important that this comes from a top-down approach. Our Chief Executive has made it clear that supporting care-experienced young people is a priority. This message is disseminated throughout the organisation, making it a topic of discussion and action across all areas of our work.”
Sport Aberdeen’s commitment to care-experienced children goes beyond the activities of the SPACE programme. It’s about creating an inclusive culture within the organisation.
Kim emphasises the importance of this top-down approach: “Through discussions with the leadership team, it’s clear that supporting care-experienced young people is a priority for Sport Aberdeen as a whole – it’s not just limited to the Active Schools arm of the organisation.”
Kim further elaborates on the importance of supporting the entire family unit: “Supported memberships and the whole family approach is crucial. Any care experienced young person and a member of their support network receives a free Sport Aberdeen Get active membership so they can continue to reap the benefits of getting active in their own personal time. The Get active membership provides access to every Sport Aberdeen activity including ice skating, tennis, swimming, golf, padel and more. If we can create a more positive environment, we’re setting up not just the young people for success, but also their families. This holistic approach is essential for breaking the generational impact of the care system.”
Katrina adds: “We’re not always trying to add to a young person’s life but use the positive relationships they already have to create a support network. It’s about listening to what the young people need and piecing the jigsaw together to support them effectively.”
Both Kim and Katrina passionately advocate for the role of sport and physical activity in the development and well-being of care-experienced children.
Kim explains: “Sport and physical activity offers a host of transferable skills.
“Beyond physical and mental well-being, they teach turn-taking, social skills and a sense of belonging. These are crucial for building positive relationships with peers and adults.”
Katrina agrees, emphasising the broader impact of sport: “Participating in sport can open pathways to employment and higher education. Through our SPACE programme, we provide opportunities away from the traditional classroom setup, giving young people tangible skills and experiences.”
The SPACE programme supports children from primary age through to secondary school leavers. Katrina shares a touching story: “We’ve had young people who couldn’t ride a bike or swim, skills you’d think are just part of childhood. By providing bikes, helmets and swimming lessons, we’ve given them opportunities they might not have had otherwise. This sense of belonging is crucial.”
Kim adds: “It’s about taking those two words ‘corporate parent’ and losing the ‘corporate’ part. It’s about being the parent for the children, ensuring they have the happy, healthy experiences every child deserves.”
The impact of the SPACE programme is profound.
From August 2023 to July 2024:
- 729 free Get active memberships were provided
- 38 families attended the SPACE Christmas Party
- 40 care experienced young people were supported to access free bikes
- 30 were supported to access free swimming lessons
Katrina recounts numerous success stories: “We’ve seen young people who initially couldn’t engage in conversation develop the confidence to lead activities and even find employment. The progress they make week to week is incredible.”
Kim highlights the importance of celebrating these achievements: “We use SPACE journals to document their journey. These journals are filled with jokes and fun things that have happened, challenges overcome, and successes. One parent was overwhelmed by the positive reinforcement their child received, seeing the sense of achievement and pride in their eyes.”
The Promise has also facilitated greater collaboration among organisations. Kim notes: “The Promise has brought organisations together, helping us identify gaps and improve our services. By working together, we can provide a more comprehensive support system for care-experienced young people.”
Looking ahead, Kim hopes to extend these opportunities beyond Aberdeen: “We’re fortunate that Sport Aberdeen values opportunities for care-experienced young people. We aim to ensure that regardless of postcode, all care-experienced children get equal opportunities to benefit from our programmes.”
Paving the way for a more positive, equal and inclusive future, award-winning charity Sport Aberdeen is thrilled to be shortlisted in this year’s The Herald & GenAnalytics Diversity Awards.
Since launching, the awards have made a significant impact on raising awareness of diversity and inclusion and celebrating those making remarkable contributions towards equality for everyone.
At its very core, Sport Aberdeen exists to create opportunities, inspire people and change lives through sport and physical activity – breaking down any barriers to participation.
One of the charity’s core values is inclusion and it has a dedicated forum meeting on a monthly basis to ensure employees keep learning, developing and being accountable in this area of work
This year, Sport Aberdeen is a finalist in the Diversity in Sport category, sponsored by sportscotland, with the entry focused on its targeted programmes and initiatives including those for care experienced young people, New Scots and older adults with long-term health conditions.
Forbes Dunlop, Chief Executive Officer of sportscotland, said: “Huge congratulations to all of the finalists, it’s fantastic to see so much good work being done in this area and the impact that work is having.
“At sportscotland we are committed to creating the environment for change in the sporting sector and ensuring equality, diversity and inclusion is embedded in our work.”
Graeme Dale, Director of Sport and Active Communities, said: “We are delighted to again be shortlisted as a finalist in the Diversity in Sport category.
“This is a testament to our hardworking teams always striving to make a difference and break down any barriers to participation.
“We’re really proud of the New Scots Football For All project and the impact it has had so far.
“Well done to everyone shortlisted and we look forward to celebrating at the ceremony in September!”
The glittering ceremony will take place at Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow with host Eilidh Barbour.
The full announcement via The Herald online can be found here.
Learning to swim was something that Olaniyi Olaosebikan had always wanted to do, so he took the plunge and signed up for his first swimming lesson in 2004 at age 39 years old – and he’s never looked back since.
“It was something I’d always wanted to do, I wanted to do it systematically till I was confident enough. As soon as I got the chance, I just took it”, he explained.
But weekly lessons at Bridge of Don Swimming Pool weren’t enough:
“I’d practice every day, sometimes even twice a day. I’d go to Linksfield Swimming Pool, Hazlehead Swimming Pool and Northfield Swimming Pool – anywhere there was water, I’d be there!
“Alison McDonald was my swimming teacher; she actually went on to teach my kids too – she asked me to enrol in the swimming teacher course.
“I hadn’t realised the opportunity existed to become a teacher.
“My friends would say to me – oh, you can swim now, can you teach me?!
“If I can teach my friends successfully, then why not help loads more people, I thought to myself.”
Olaniyi completed his teaching qualification through Sport Aberdeen in 2014 and teaches several classes per week across all the charity’s swimming pools.
He commented: “My contract at Tullos Swimming Pool has been the longest – Graham Dutton put me to work there in 2015 and I’ve taught there ever since.
“I was also part of the Bridge of Don Masters Club – when I was taking my kids to their lessons, I thought there’s no point sitting here watching them, so I thought I’d help out with the coaching team.
“I can’t believe I’ve been teaching now for over 10 years; I teach all ages and it’s ace!
Olaniyi then decided to complete his National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) training in 2022.
“Back when I initially learned to swim, the lifeguards at Linksfield encouraged me to become a lifeguard. They said they’d never witnessed someone go from 0 to competent before like I had done.”
“At the moment I’m doing around 8 hours of teaching per week and 7 hours of lifeguarding, but my lifeguarding hours can be as much as 20 in a week.
“Sometimes I will pick up a lifeguarding shift right before I teach at Tullos Swimming Pool and Bridge of Don Swimming Pool. But this is only my part-time job,” Olaniyi laughed.
Leading a busy life by nature, Olaniyi’s full-time job is teaching and mentoring engineers in-person down in Glasgow, primarily for students.
Explaining how he manages such a busy schedule, he remarked: “I write everything in my calendar so I can fit everything in.
“I swim every day if I can find the time. I go to Get active @ Northfield, Get active @ Lochside and Tullos Swimming Pool, sometimes Bridge of Don Swimming Pool on Sundays if I’m not working. I actually use every Sport Aberdeen pool.
“I try to swim 100 lengths in an hour, if the pool is open for 3 hours, I’ll be in there for those 3 hours.”
Speaking about how he feels whilst swimming, Olaniyi said:
“When I swim, it’s a feeling I’m not sure I can describe. It’s therapeutic, it clears my mind. It’s amazing, honestly.
“I feel very good when I come out and I sleep like a baby.
“If I don’t pick up my phone, it’s probably because I’m in the water haha.”
Showing his appreciation for Sport Aberdeen, he went on to say: “All I can say is thank you to the people at Aquatics Aberdeen – Grant MacKnight, Tom McNeill, Donna McKenzieMcNeill and all the teachers.
“Jennifer Hughes gave me my first lesson; she would watch me from a distance and then correct what I was doing wrong.
“She made sure my kids got lessons and today they talk about her as if she’s family.
“Teaching is one of my ways of giving back to Sport Aberdeen for all the support and advice I received throughout my swimming journey to date.
“My kids are all grown up now – one is a swimming teacher too and another is completing the paperwork to become an aquatics assistant.”
Sharing advice for anyone new to swimming, Olaniyi said: “Just respect the water, as long as you respect the water and follow the teacher’s advice, you’ll be fine.
“Oh, and don’t be afraid to ask any questions. Anything you are worried about, just ask.
“For me, I wanted to find out about breathing. As soon as I worked this out, I just pushed myself.”
If Olaniyi’s story has inspired you to learn to swim, then you can register for lessons with Aquatics Aberdeen here.
If you are interested in becoming a swimming teacher, email coachedprogrammes@sportaberdeen.co.uk for further information.