My Time as the Young Start Events’ Assistant

A Year of Empowerment and Inclusion with Scottish Disability Sport

By Charlotte Askham

For me, the past year has been nothing short of transformative. As the Young Start Events Assistant with Scottish Disability Sport (SDS), I has played a vital role in delivering inclusive sporting events across the country, supporting athletes with physical disabilities, learning disabilities, vision impairments and hearing loss.

“I am incredibly grateful to SDS, Josh, and Kirsty for this amazing opportunity,” Charlotte shared. “It’s been a year of growth, learning, and unforgettable experiences.”

From swimming competitions to boccia tournaments, I have taken on a variety of responsibilities including registration, social media and results coordination. These hands-on roles have helped my build confidence and gain valuable insights into event logistics and team collaboration.

One standout moment was the national Summer Camp held in Aviemore—a three-day event for young athletes aged 10 to 17. “Supporting my team and watching them push past boundaries was incredibly inspiring,”. “And yes—our team won! Go greens!”

 

Reflecting on my journey, I highlighted the diverse skill that I have developed, from communication and teamwork to event planning. My time with SDS has laid a strong foundation for future opportunities in sport and community engagement.

This story is a testament to the power of inclusive sport and the impact of youth development programs. As I looks ahead, her passion and experience promise to make waves in whatever comes next.

A massive thank you to the National Lottery Young Start Funding for providing this opportunity of a role within SDS.