Tag: scotland

A group of people sitting on chairs and throwing boccia balls at some target hoops on the ground

Boccia at the Heart of the Community

By William Moncrieff, Communications Officer. 

 

Over the last two years, West Dumbartonshire Boccia Club has been providing individuals with opportunities to participate in boccia –  and it’s had a huge, positive impact on the community.  

A key volunteer at the club, Kirsty Maceira, explained one step they take to create a healthy atmosphere is encouraging everyone to take part “By getting everyone involved it gives them something to do, they get real enjoyment out of it.” Kirsty said. 

This is a view that Hugh, a 70-year-old volunteer at the club, shared: “I enjoy interacting with the members and listening to the stories they have to tell.” 

Karen, a 25-year-old participant at the club, also commented on how she enjoys everyone being together: “We all have good fun encouraging each other and I enjoy meeting new friends through our club.”  

The club is held weekly on a Tuesday afternoon at Dalmuir Barclay Church Hall and regularly sees around 18 participants attending. However, Kirsty and the rest of the team at the club are determined to get more people playing boccia. 

“We are now getting to a stage of getting out to other community groups and delivering taster sessions to show them what boccia is,” Kirsty said. 

She continued to say, “Right now we are doing work within sheltered housing. People aren’t able to get out and about to come to us and to go to other community groups. So now we are tapping into going to them to give them an opportunity to play.”  

Having this opportunity to go out into the community has been a real highlight of delivering boccia for Kirsty. 

“They absolutely loved it. The laughs that they had, the enjoyment, the fact that they could just sit down and play and just have a blast was amazing,” she said. 

On November 16th 2025, West Dumbartonshire Boccia Club held their first ever Boccia Bash. This event was hosted to raise awareness and showcasing its inclusivity and all the benefits that it can provide. The event provided attendees with boccia taster sessions and other community groups were invited to take part in a competition. 

One element of the sport that Kirsty has really found herself appreciating is the inclusivity. She said: “It doesn’t matter their age or their abilities, everybody is welcome, and everyone can play.” 

The impact of the club has been noticed by John, a 77-year-old participant. He said: “I can see small improvements with my mobility in the upper body movements.” 

John isn’t the only one noticing the physical benefits. Alan (37-year-old participant) said: “I am certainly feeling the benefit of using my arms more regularly.”  

Along with many of the physical benefits that boccia can provide, the club is keen to make sure that it also impacts participants psychologically. To help with this, Kirsty explained that they have created opportunities throughout their sessions to get everyone socialising.  

“We offer free tea and coffee and a biscuit every week. So, we start by playing our games, then we go into the next hall and we all have a drink and a biscuit and that is when we get to socialise,” Kirsty explained. 

Throughout her time with the club, Kirsty has grasped how important the social impact can be. “I think sometimes that is the most fun part for some, because they get to socialise and you see those friendships developing,” Kirsty said. 

This sentiment was echoed by Alan, who said: “I am happy to meet with everyone and have a chat and a coffee at the break.”  

Alongside impacting participants psychologically, many of the volunteers have found the club to be hugely impactful. “I feel very content whilst supporting the club. It has allowed me to stay active and continue building on my mental health, as I am part of a welcoming club”, said Margaret, a 73-year-old volunteer coach. 

Kirsty believes that the great community surrounding West Dumbartonshire Boccia Club is a factor in volunteers regularly providing support. Kirsty commented on this community aspect: “There is such a good atmosphere in the club, that is why they come along to volunteer because they see how good it is and how good it is for the participants.” 

Volunteer Suzanne (73 years-old) commented on this. She said, “The thing I enjoy the most is the social aspect of it, where everybody comes together and has a great time with lots of laughs. 

“Our moto is, ‘ 

come for the sport, stay for the smiles’, which is exactly what this club does.” 

If you would be interested in finding out more about West Dumbartonshire Boccia Club, you can do so by emailing: wdboccia@outlook.com 

Alternatively reach out to your Regional Development Manager to find out how you can get involved in boccia as a player, coach, volunteer or official.  

To keep up to date with all things disability sport across Scotland, follow Scottish Disability Sport on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.  

Group photo. Left to right: Gemma Lumsdaine, John Swinney, Gavin Macleod, Maree Todd and Stephen MacGuire. Gemma and John are holding a sign that says: I support the Scottish Disability Sport Call to Action to remove barriers to physical activity and sport.’

Scottish Disability Sport Urges MSPs to Take Immediate Action for an Inclusive Scotland at Scottish Parliament Photocall

Scottish Disability Sport (SDS) met with MSPs to highlight the urgency of creating a fully inclusive Scotland at their Call to Action Photocall, hosted at the Scottish Parliament on Thursday 20th November.  

SDS’s four-point Call to Action asks for organisations across Scotland to take urgent action to remove the significant barriers faced by people with a disability in accessing sport and physical activity. It follows the publication of a new national survey by SDS, which highlights the ongoing inequalities experienced by people with a disability and the impact this has on their quality of life.   

First Minister, John Swinney said: “It’s absolutely vital that we encourage more to participate in sport and there are so many ways in which we can make that possible. We’ve had a visit from some great individuals who are taking forward that work within our communities and I would encourage more to do so.”  

The national survey conducted in partnership with Queen Margaret University Centre for Health, Activity and Rehabilitation Research (CHEARR) revealed that 40% of people with a disability in Scotland are worried about losing their benefits if they are seen to be more physically active. 

Paris 2024 Paralympic gold medallist, Stephen McGuire (boccia), Great Britain’s wheelchair rugby athlete, Gemma Lumsdaine and multi-Para athlete, Samantha Gough, attended the photocall to advocate for inclusion through their perspective of lived experiences.  

Gemma, who is also Sported’s EDI (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion) Lead, commented on the day: “I think it’s really important that MSPs hear first-hand from people with lived experience around their experiences of topics within the Call to Action.  

“This brings the need to life and also supports individuals to understand how they can make impactful change at Government level.”  

With nearly one in five respondents doing no physical activity each week, yet 73% expressing a desire to do more, the results from the survey highlight concerns around the benefits system, rising living costs, public transport and more.     

Maree Todd MSP (Minister for Drug & Alcohol Policy and Sport) pledged her support: “I’m supporting the Scottish Disability Sport Call to Action because I’m someone who really believes in the power of sport to change people’s lives and I want absolutely everyone in Scotland to be able to experience that.” 

Jeremy Balfour, MSP for Lothian, has been a valuable supporter of the Call to Action. He said: “Sport is for everybody and we should get rid of all barriers to allow everybody to participate, to watch, to enjoy sport and I hope the campaign is completely successful.” 

Paralympian Stephen MacGuire and Great Britain’s wheelchair rugby athlete Gemma Lumsdaine, head the Scottish Parliamentary photocall on the stairs inside the Scottish Parliament. MSP gather on the stairs with a selection holding sporting equipment (boccia balls, football, tennis racquet, basketball) whilst others hold signs pledging support for the SDS Call to Action.

SDS is indebted to Jeremy Balfour MSP for his support in arranging the Photocall. 

SDS CEO, Gavin Macleod said: “It’s vital that we continue to remind those in Government who can implement change why an inclusive Scotland benefits all. 

“Sport and physical activity is something most people take for granted yet a quarter of the population face several barriers to accessing it. 

“This four-point Call to Action lays out how organisations around Scotland can adapt their policies and strategies to lead on inclusive practice within the UK.” 

The four-point Call to Action outlines the necessary steps to creating a more inclusive and active Scotland that benefits all –  

Plan to Include –  

  • Reduce inequalities for people with disabilities through inclusive strategy, policy, development and proportionate funding, 
  • Invest in systemic change to remove barriers to accessible travel, affordable and accessible facilities and inclusive spaces. 

Deliver an inclusive whole system approach –  

  • Every person with a disability has the right to take part in quality inclusive physical activity, physical education and sport. 
  • A health and social care system that prescribes appropriate physical activity opportunities at every stage of the individual’s pathway. 

A benefits and social care system that equips individuals to be active  

  • Provide safeguards to reassure people with disabilities that being active will not negatively impact any government financial assistance. 
  • Those in receipt of Self-Directed Support in Scotland should be able and encouraged to use their budget to engage in physical activity and sport. 

Champion intersectionality through a person-centred approach 

  • Collaborate with partners across sectors to champion intersectionality within policy, strategy and development.  
  • Ensure the needs of people with disabilities with intersecting identities are considered and met by codesign with those with lived experience. 

 

Get involved and advocate for inclusion in Scotland by joining the conversation throughout Scottish Disability Sport Week (SDSW), next week (Monday 24th to Sunday 30th November).  

SDSW is a Nationwide celebration of getting active and involved in disability sport in Scotland. The campaign aims to highlight and promote the opportunities and the impact physical activity can have on individuals, communities, clubs and society.    

The week-long campaign aims to encourage people with disabilities to improve their wellbeing by being more physically active, in a way that suits them and it concludes just a few days ahead of the United Nations’ International Day of Persons with a Disability on the Wednesday 3rd December.   

More information can be found on the SDS website, including how you can participate in the conversation, and via the Briefing Paper.  

Graphic that advertises a new job at Scottish Disability Sport. Dark purple and green text on a white background, which says: we are hiring, Trusts and Grants Fundraising Post, apply now. A photo of a young boy in a wheelchair is smiling holding two red boccia balls. 

JOB ALERT: Trusts and Grants Fundraising Post

Renumeration: £20 per hour
Hours: 15 – 20 hours per week (subject to agreement)
Duration: 12 months fixed term, with a potential for extension depending on success.
Contract Type: Contract for Services (on a Self-employed basis)
Responsible to: SDS Head of Policy
Deadline: 12pm, 26th September 2025

 

 

Interviews: Wednesday 8 October 2025 (Time TBC)
Workplace: Remote or office based working is available. SDS are based at Forthstone
Office, 56 South Gyle Crescent, Edinburgh, EH12 9EB.

 

FULL JOB DESCRIPTION CAN BE FOUND HERE. 

Scottish Disability Sport (SDS) is looking for a talented Trusts and Grants Fundraiser to inspire funders to support SDS in achieving our vision to ensure sport and physical activity in Scotland are welcoming and inclusive for participants with disabilities. SDS is the Scottish governing and co-coordinating body of all sports for people of all ages and abilities with a physical, sensory or learning disability.

Our strategic plan, which directs our work, can be found here on our website.

Are you a sensitive storyteller, enthusiastic fundraiser, confident collaborator and dedicated researcher? You will design compelling funding applications, innovate new ways to connect with Trusts and Foundations, and steward vital income for our projects and services.

This role will enable SDS to grow its impact, strengthen donor relationships, diversify funding sources, and support long-term financial sustainability. Do you – 

  • Have a strong track record of securing funding via trusts and grants for organisations in the
    third sector?
  • Have the ability to create engaging and innovative storytelling to evidence the positive
    impact of funding for people with a disability in Scotland?
  • Have the knowledge and expertise to harness new ways of connecting to trusts, foundations
    and philanthropists?

You will be part of a dynamic and energetic team at SDS who support people with disabilities in Scotland to engage in sport and be more active.

To apply, please submit your C.V. and a cover letter indicating your suitability for the role to:
Mark Gaffney, SDS Head of Policy at mark.gaffney@Scottishdisabilitysport.com

If you would like an informal chat about the role, please contact Mark at the email above or by phoning: 0131 317 1130

 

Black-grey background with a rainbow flag for Disability Pride Month. The colours of the flag are red, yellow, white, blue and green. The Scottish Disability Sport blue logo is positioned over the middle of the flag.

Disability Pride Month: July 2025

Disability Pride Month 2025 is taking place throughout the month of July. This month is an opportunity for individuals with a disability to have a chance to come together and tell their stories. Disability Pride Month is about a lot more than showcasing what having a disability means. It is an opportunity to showcase the day-to-day struggles, achievements, bouts of resilience and life changing experiences that individuals with a disability often have.

Disability Pride Month follows the publication of the key findings from the first National Survey conducted by Scottish Disability Sport (SDS), in partnership with Queen Margaret University Centre for Health, Activity and Rehabilitation Research (CHEARR), which sheds light on the complex barriers faced by people with a disability when it comes to engaging in sport and physical activity—highlighting concerns around the benefits system, rising living costs, public transport and more. 

Disability Pride Month is a time to advocate, celebrate and shared lived experiences from people with a disability living in Scotland. Furthermore, with one quarter of the Scottish population having a disability, SDS believes it to be very important to have a fair representation within staffing and via the Young Person’s Sport Panel (YPSP). 

Last year (2024), members from the YPSP shared their lived experiences to help promote and raise awareness about Disability Pride Month. Recap on the interview below –

By William Moncrieff, Communications Officer

The Disability Pride Month flag is made up of different colours that represent a different disability. Yellow is being used to celebrate neurodiversity, cognitive and intellectual disabilities. 

Yellow represents both Ruby and Grace, two members of the YPSP, and here they share a bit about themselves.  

Ruby: Hi my name is Ruby. I am 17 years old, and I have Foetal Alcohol Syndrome which is also known as FASD.  This means I have a learning/hidden disability. I joined the Young Person’s Sports Panel to show people that they shouldn’t be ashamed of having a disability.  It makes you unique and different to everyone else.   I would like to help make a difference, not just in disability sport but in the wider community. My disability impacts my life with my reading and writing and understanding.  I sometimes need help and support. The most exciting thing that my disability has done for me is allowed me to be me.  I am a very sociable person and like helping people.  I do lots of volunteer work, which allows me to help people of all abilities.  I have won lots of awards for this and had the opportunity to meet lots of my sporting idols. 

Grace: Happy Disability Pride Month! My name is Grace, and I am going to be talking a little bit about my experiences as a disabled young person. I have autism, a neurodevelopmental condition (also referred to as neurodivergence) which means that my brain works differently. It impacts most of my life, and I struggle with: emotional regulation, processing information, sensory issues, anxiety around uncertainty and social situations. 

As an autistic person, I mask a lot. Masking is when a person attempts to hide their autistic traits, to fit in or be more accepted by society. This means that from an outside perspective it might not look like my disability impacts me in day-to-day life – but it does. The main ways my disability impacts me in day-to-day life is by needing a lot of support from people to help manage my emotions and learn to be independent. I also get really tired a lot of the time. Because I spend a lot of my time masking, feeling anxious, or getting overwhelmed by everything going on around me, I get drained pretty easily – so I need a lot of time to rest and recuperate.  

I wasn’t diagnosed with autism until I was 16. This means that I spent most of my teenage years thinking something was “wrong” with me, or that I wasn’t “trying hard enough.” Getting my autism diagnosis brought up a lot of emotions – relief, confusion, anger – and it was a lot to get my head around. I had to show resilience when dealing with my diagnosis and working to accept my autism. It was hard to cope with all the things that changed after my diagnosis, however it also allowed me to advocate for myself. Whilst autism is a disability – one that can make my life harder – it is also something I am proud of. Autism makes me who I am, and I take pride in my identity. 

 

I wanted to join the YPSP because I knew how positive sport has been in my life. I wanted to promote inclusion in sport for autistic people, and I am also passionate about equality for women and girls in sport. I have been successful in this so far by being a part of the “awareness raising” subgroup and posting of social media throughout “women and girls in sport” month. I have really enjoyed my time on the panel so far, and I can’t wait to see what’s to come! 

 

Red represents physical disabilities.  

Charlotte (YPSP member): Hey, my name is Charlotte and I am 18! My disability is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and Functional Neurological Disorder. This basically means that my brain is not communicating with my right leg and I have pain in my right hip and my leg is extended out in front with my foot at a 90° angle. 

I am part of the events subgroup (in the YPSP), and we are in the process of planning our own event! I joined the panel to have a voice in disability sport and start my coaching career as having a disability was quite new to me. I am a wheelchair user with my right leg supported out. Having my disability can impact my day-to-day life, as if I am going out coaching and my parents aren’t around to help drop me off it means I need to get lifts off people, as public transport is not that accessible for me! I find ways around this by planning my day so I am in one area all day and can wheel from building to building for coaching! 

I became disabled 3 years ago and did not have a clue what to do with myself! But since then I have had lots of new and exciting opportunities. For example, going to Lords cricket ground, in London, with my old high school to take part in a table cricket final! I also have become a valued member of FVDS supporting clubs, activities  and events. I have also joined the committee as the social media/comms rep, and I’m looking forward to getting stuck in and promoting all the wonderful events and activities on social media! Becoming Young Volunteer of the Year 2023 was such a great surprise. Working with Cricket Scotland and Cricket Forth Valley to develop myself as a coach and gain qualifications to become a cricket coach has allowed me to teach others table cricket and help them on their journey. Volunteering with Falkirk Active Schools supporting lunch time and after school clubs and events has been a great opportunity, as has Helping Falkirk Active Schools and Active Stirling with summers camps and developing relationships with the children. Just gaining valuable skills and knowledge to become a better coach and help others enjoy sport has been great. I have had the privilege of attending SDS events and supporting the amazing team and getting stuck in wherever I am needed to help the event become a success. These opportunities have also created lasting memories and friendships with people I volunteer, support and coach with. I recently qualified as a Sport Education Tutor thanks to an opportunity through the panel and I’m looking forward to starting this and helping others achieve their goals and potential. 

 

Green represents sensory disabilities – 

William (SDS Communications Apprentice): Hello, my name is William and I am the communications apprentice (now Communications Officer) here at Scottish Disability Sport. I became completely blind as well as deaf in my right ear when I was 19. This happened after a sudden illness. At times being Visually Impaired can be very hard. I especially find this to be the case when focusing on my independence. Due to myself being completely able bodied before I lost my sight and hearing this has a been a big change in my life. Before I lost my sight I played a lot of sport, did a lot of recreational activities by myself and could drive. Obviously I took some time to adjust, which I am still doing. However, I feel like I have made big improvements. I feel like I am a lot more comfortable asking for help and more importantly taking it. In life people are always wanting to help, but people aren’t always wanting to be helped, and this is something I am working on. 

One really exciting thing that has happened to me is joining the Millimeters to Mountains organisation (M2M). This organisation takes young people with a disability – particular individuals that have picked up their disability in later life and aims to use the outdoors as an opportunity to redefine what is possible in life. This has led to me having some really cool opportunities, such as climbing Ben Nevis in March (2024). This was something that was great for me, putting me out of my comfort zone and forcing me to interact with new individuals that I could relate to. Over the next two and a half years I am going to have some great opportunities with the M2M crew, which I can’t wait to explore, develop and share. 

 

White represents hidden and undiagnosed disabilities – 

Dana (YSPS member): Hi, my name is Dana! I have hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) and fibromyalgia, both of which are chronic health conditions. hEDS is a connective tissue disorder caused by faulty collagen, making it weak and stretchy. This affects everything from my skin and tendons to my blood vessels and internal organs. As a result, I experience things like chronic pain and fatigue, frequent joint subluxations/dislocations, easy bruising, digestive issues, and chronic headaches/migraines. Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. 

I joined the panel to be a voice for change. Having been heavily involved in sports my whole life, I have gained firsthand experience of the benefits of physical activity and sports whilst also encountering many barriers to participation. Until last year, I knew very little about disability sports and how to get involved. Joining the YPSP has given me the chance to be part of a subgroup where we aim to raise the profile of disability sports and shine a light on the many opportunities and experiences that exist in Scotland for disabled people. 

Living with hEDS takes a lot of planning and prioritizing. Everything takes up energy, so adapting my daily routine and having a support system is essential for me to maintain independence and have a life. Having an invisible disability also means I constantly have to advocate for myself and the support I may need. The lack of understanding about dynamic disabilities can cause a lot of anxiety. While it may seem confusing that yesterday I could walk and today I need a wheelchair, it is merely just because my needs have changed. 

I grew up as a competitive swimmer with the dream of reaching the Olympics. When my health deteriorated and the injuries piled up, doctors advised me to reduce training and stop competing. This shift in my daily routine had a massive impact on my mental health and I struggled to adjust to a new normal. With some support and advice, I realized this wasn’t the only option. I worked hard to get into university to stay connected to sports through my degree. I then used my passion for inclusion in my dissertation and I now use my experiences to support and advocate for others. Whilst having an unpredictable illness can make life challenging, it is important to try and see lost goals as new opportunities. 

 

The colour blue represents mental and psychiatric disabilities – 

Former Paralympian, Maria Lyle, has opened up about her mental health journey as an elite athlete, over recent years.  

Maria has found sport to be something that has helped her have a more positive relationship with her mental health. “Something that sport has provided is that kind of social support. Being a disabled person, I’m not always around other people who I can relate to, so having people in my team with the same condition, or with other disabilities means we can share experiences and advice and really open up, which has been brilliant”, said Maria in a previous SDS interview.  

The social aspect of sport is a big part for many individuals participating in sport. A further coping mechanism for Maria is, “making sure I’ve balance in my life. Putting energy into other hobbies, education, work and friends. So when say if one thing isn’t going the way you want it to then you’ve got other options to make everything else more positive.” 

 

Although Disability Pride Month only takes place in July, it is important that we advocate for inclusion and continue these conversations every day. With 722 charges being reported with an aggravation of prejudice relating to disabilities in 2022-2023, (a 3% increase from 2021-2022) this very much outlines the need for more awareness to breakdown societal barriers. (Source: https://www.copfs.gov.uk/publications/hate-crime-in-scotland-2022-23/.) 

SDS celebrates and advocates for a more inclusive and diverse society, every day, and SDS will be joining in the nationwide celebration of Scottish Disability Sport Week (SDSW) from Monday 25th November to Sunday 1st December – just ahead of International Day of Persons with a Disability on the 3rd. Scottish Disability Sport Week will be a prime opportunity for individuals to join conversations and talk about challenges and achievements of individuals with a disability. More information about the 2024 SDSW will be coming soon, via the SDS website and social media channels. 

 

You can also find out more about what sporting opportunities are available in your community by contacting your Regional Development Manager. To keep up-to-date on all of the ongoing work, make sure to follow Scottish Disability Sport on Facebook, X and Instagram, as well as on the SDS website.

Photo of a group of people and Paralympians at the ParalympicsGB reunionin Stirling

Paralympians Reunite at First Athlete Community Reunion

ParalympicsGB’s Athlete Community Reunites Team Members from Across the Decades

ParalympicsGB held its first ever Athlete Community reunion event in Stirling, Scotland on Saturday (31st May), bringing together British Paralympians from across the generations to celebrate and recognise their place in the team’s rich history.  

The event was the first in a series of reunion events which will take place across the UK as part of ParalympicsGB’s newly established Athlete Community and provided an opportunity for athletes and loved ones of athletes who have passed away to reunite, make new connections and celebrate their achievements.  

Athletes also received official ParalympicsGB recognition tokens, honouring their contribution to the history of the team. The first tokens were presented to athletes during the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, with the ambition of awarding tokens to all those who have represented the British Paralympic team at a Paralympic Games since the inaugural competition in 1960.  

ParalympicsGB Chief Executive David Clarke, who competed at the Atlanta 1996, Beijing 2008 and London 2012 Games, awarded athletes with their tokens and said:  

“ParalympicsGB’s Athlete Community was established to provide a space for British Paralympians to reconnect with their peers, celebrate achievements and also to sign up for training and other opportunities. We also wanted to acknowledge every athlete’s contribution to the team in a tangible, lasting way and hopefully ParalympicsGB’s recognition tokens help do just that. 

“I am delighted that so many athletes past and present were able to attend our first ever reunion event and to witness the joy that shared experiences can bring. Being a British Paralympian is not just about excelling on the field of play, it is about overcoming barriers, creating legacies and inspiring a better world for disabled people which is something we can best strive for together.” 

The event also included a panel discussion chaired by Scottish Disability Sport Chief Executive, Gavin Macleod alongside Paralympians from across the decades – Martin Mansell, who competed in Para swimming at the 1984 and 1988 Games, winning eight medals; swimmer Paul Noble who competed in five consecutive Games from 1984 to 2000 winning 15 Paralympic medals including four golds; Caroline Baird, a Para athletics gold medallist at Barcelona 1992, Atlanta 1996 and Sydney 2000; and Kelly Gallagher who became the first Paralympian to win a gold medal on snow with victory in the women’s super-G at Sochi 2014. 

Former Para swimmer Iain Gowans, who competed at Atlanta 1996, attended the event and said: “It’s great – it’s a unique opportunity to come and meet people that you might not have seen since your competition days. I competed back in 1996 so there were a couple of people I hadn’t seen since then – last century! So it was really good to reconnect.  

“Paralympic sport is a fantastic vehicle for promoting positive social change and I think athletes are a key part of that, so the more we can get together and connect with each other, the better for the Paralympic movement and the disabled community in general.” 

Angela Robertson (née McDowell), who competed at Seoul 1988 said: “I think it’s special to have the recognition tokens, but I think it’s more important to be recognised and be here in this environment. It’s nice to have something to show and pass on to family but just being around different people that had the experience you also had has been the highlight of my day.” 

For more information about the Athlete Community go to: https://paralympics.org.uk/articles/athlete-community

Or contact: athletecommunity@paralympics.org.uk

Photo of Stephen McGuire throwing a boccia ball. Text on the poster says, Clean Sport Week. 19th to 23rd May, the Next Generation: protecting and empowering young athletes.

Clean Sport Week 2025: The Next Generation

The Next Generation: Protecting and supporting young athletes during Clean Sport Week, 19 – 23 May. 

Scottish Disability Sport (SDS) is committed to clean sport and will be supporting UK Anti-Doping’s (UKAD’s) Clean Sport Week campaign from 19 – 23 May.  

Clean Sport Week is UKAD’s national awareness campaign championing clean sport, education and anti-doping initiatives with sports across the UK. 

This year’s Clean Sport Week theme is “The Next Generation”. To ensure the future of our sport is a bright and clean one, it’s vital that we support and educate young people on anti-doping and inspire them to become proud clean athletes. UKAD has teamed up with; TASS, SportsAid, and DiSE to discuss how the sporting community, family, friends, and those working with young people, can protect and empower young athletes. 

A culture of clean sport is essential for the long-term health and wellbeing of athletes. Whether you’re a proud aspiring [player/athlete of sport] on your clean sport journey, a parent/ carer looking for the right tools to support your child in [the sport], a school or college wanting to teach your pupils about fair play, be sure to follow and get involved in Clean Sport Week. 

We encourage anyone in our sporting community that would like to learn more about anti-doping to sign up to UKAD’s Clean Sport Hub where there are free education courses for athletes, students, coaches and practitioners. 

Follow @ukantidoping on social media to see a range of educational and exciting content throughout the week. To find out more about UKAD’s Clean Sport Week initiative click here. 

Ian Graham preparing to bowl

Age Well Through Sport: Ian Graham’s Story 

By William Moncrieff, Communications Officer 

Ian Graham has been participating and competing in visually impaired bowls for 15 years. These years hold some of Ian’s most rewarding and meaningful memories. He reflected on his experiences saying, “It’s been such a journey. I have been around the world and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.” 

Alongside all the memories that Ian has made throughout his journey, being a B2 bowler (B2 classification is where the person has the ability to recognise hand movements up to a visual acuity of 2/60), he has also experienced many of the other benefits that sport and physical activity can provide. 

“When you get on to the green you are most certainly working on the physical side of things, you’re putting your all into it, you’re walking back and forth from end to end  delivering balls. At the same time you are mentally aware, you’ve got to be focused and aware of what you are doing with the tactical side of things,” he explained. 

Ian was skeptical when it was first suggested that he try bowls.  

“When Ron McArthur came to the sensory center looking for people to play bowls, I declined.” Ian said. However, his mind was swayed when he spoke to his son, who was also starting out his own journey in Parasport. 

“My youngest boy, Niall, played basketball for England All Stars. He became registered visually impaired as well and he phoned me up to tell me that he had been pre-selected for the London 2012 Paralympics in Goalball. He said, ‘what are you going to do dad’, and I said, ‘I’m going to play for Scotland son’.” 

Fifteen years later, Ian wishes he took up the opportunity to play both lawn and indoor bowls a lot earlier. “The greatest regret I’ve got, is that I wish I did it so much earlier.” 

Ian now plays for the Forth Valley Visually Impaired Bowlers club and one of the most rewarding elements of the sport that he finds is supporting others to try bowls and gain all the benefits.  

“Yes, I have had success and it has given me a lot of pleasure, but the greatest pleasure that I get is when I am with guys and girls that we’ve recruited as players and we are on the bowling green speaking. They might not be the best bowlers in the world and they’re just attending for the social aspect but they are standing and having a blether. That is the greatest achievement because we have got them out of those dark places.” 

Ian followed this up by saying: “Bowling is great for our physical health but it is also great for our mental strength and wellbeing. It’s just great seeing guys and girls come in and have a life.” 

Ian talked about how the game of bowls helped him get out of a dark place. “As a person who had pretty much given up on life, thinking it has all past them by, I can tell you there is nothing better than being able to put the Scotland shirt on and stand with your teammates and represent your country.” 

For Ian representing Scotland is one of the many highlights that he has felt throughout his bowls career. “With Scotland, when you walk on to the green there is always Scotland the brave playing, and that really gets the heart pumping.” 

Although for Ian, playing for Scotland is important, he’s always enjoyed being able to see other people having the opportunity to represent their nation. “The year before last we had two debutants playing at a Home Nations Championships. One was 27 and the other a 81-year-old gentlemen. They led the team out carrying the Saltire and you’ve never seen an 81-year-old man look so proud, his chest was pushed right out,” recalled Ian.  

Ian benefits greatly from the social elements of bowls. “The good thing about bowls is the community. It’s not the biggest sport in the world but we all meet up together and understand that we are part of the greater movement of bowls. This all adds to the stimulation, when you go to meet people.” 

Ian Graham walking on the bowling green

With Ian having an amazing journey in bowls, participating in tournaments globally, meeting new people and being rewarded with many of the psychological and physiological benefits, he would advocate that everyone gives the sport a go.  

“Don’t delay, just do it. There are plenty of avenues; find your local club, there is so much you can gain from it”, said Ian.  

If you would be interested in trying bowls and experiencing many of the benefits that Ian has shared, you can email your Regional Development manager who will be able to provide you with information about local opportunities. 

Make sure to stay up to date on all opportunities throughout Scotland, by following Scottish Disability Sport on Facebook, Instagram and X. 

Photo that says Silver for Scotland at World Wheelchair Curling Championships 2025. It is white text on a light and dark purple background

World Silver Medal and Paralympic Spot Secured

Scotland sealed a silver medal on home ice at the weekend (16th March), finishing second behind Japan in the Mixed Doubles Competition at the World Wheelchair Curling Championships.  

The silver medal for Charlotte McKenna (Central) and Hugh Nibloe (Dumfries and Galloway) has also guaranteed the pair a spot in ParalympicsGB squad for the upcoming Winter Paralympics in Milano-Cortina 2026.  

Following the silver medal win, Charlotte said: “It feels great. It’s amazing to get a silver medal. A bit disappointed obviously and it hurts now to not get the gold.” 

“I think we can be proud of what we did,” concluded Charlotte.  

Qualifying for the Paralympics was, “the absolute goal,” said Hugh.  

The Championships took place at Auchenharvie Leisure Centre in Stevenston, Scotland. Charlotte and Hugh battled for gold against Japan’s Nakajima Yoj and Ogawa Aki. 

The Japanese duo took the lead following the first end (0-1) but Charlotte played a perfect take-out to put Scotland in front, 2-1, heading into the third end.  

Japan wasn’t rattled though and led the break, 5-2. Their momentum continued which forced Scotland to concede the game, with the finish score being 11-2.  

More information can be found on the British Curling website here.  

 

Poster with white text on a dark blue background. Text says, are you a child or parent of a child with lower limb loss? We need your help to design and test a new prosthetic knee for children all around the world.

Participants Wanted to Trial Children’s Prosthetic Knee

A group of researchers at Imperial College London are seeking participants to provide feedback on a new prosthetic knee for children globally. 

They have been working hard with children and teenagers all over the world to understand what changes are wanted for a new affordable prosthetic knee. They want to make sure every child has access to a prosthetic limb no matter where they live.

They have made a new knee design with exciting new features in different sizes. Therefore, if you are a child or teenager with lower limb loss above or through the knee joint, they want to hear from you.

For more information and to express your interest in getting involved, please refer to this accessible document, here. 

Please note that if you are accepted as a participant, all your travel expenses, including any necessary hotel stays in London, will be covered. This would include any expenses for parents and children attending.

Further information about the researches involved in the project, is available here:

A photo of Hollie standing in front of a large sign reading ‘Paris 2024’, on the other side of them there is a large Paralympic logo.

Hollie Fullerton Joins SDS as New YPSP Administrator

Committed to influencing change across Scotland, meet the new Young Person’s Sports Panel Administrator: Hollie Fullerton.

By William Moncrieff, Communications Coordinator  

Hollie Fullerton joins the Scottish Disability Sport (SDS) team, taking up the role as the new Young Person’s Sports Pannel (YPSP) Administrator. This is an exciting opportunity for Hollie – who is a current member of the YPSP – who is committed to influencing disability sport across Scotland. They said: “It’s been something I’ve always been passionate about but it’s only been really recently that I’ve been like, this is what I am here to do, this is what I want to do.”  

Hollie starts their new role with lots of knowledge of what it is like to be a panel member, which gives them a real appreciation of the strengths and benefits of the panel. “I feel like I have gained so much from being around the panel, hearing everybody’s stories and their experiences in sport they have great knowledge and experience, it’s such a great place to be.”  

Furthermore, they said: “My main goal for the panel is to really keep everyone engaged and to make sure that everyone is getting the most out of it, making sure that it is really led by them and directed by them.” 

Something else that Hollie is keen to keep the panel engaged with is Euan’s Guide. Euan’s Guide is an organisation which helps promote accessible facilities, through individuals leaving reviews once they have visited and used them. This is something that Hollie and the rest of the YPSP are incredibly keen to promote with the hope that more knowledge and awareness of inclusive and accessible sport and leisure facilities will result in more individuals being able to become physically active.  

“I think it is the kind of thing that we could all be doing. It’s nice to have done the process myself so I can say that it’s not difficult.” 

Hollie continued to say, “I think there are so many things that would make things more accessible for everybody and so many little changes that would make everybody feel more included.” 

Euan’s Guide can help individuals know about the accessibility of various areas and aspects of a facility. “It’s really good for people who have physical adaptations and are needing to know if there are certain requirements.” 

Hollie joins SDS with lots of experience of working in disability sport, through several volunteering and coaching events.  

“Before I knew I had autism, I was involved with disability sports as a coach, at a grass roots level called All Stars.” For Hollie, this formed the basis of their learning and coaching philosophy. 

“It totally shaped me. It was my first coaching job”, Hollie said. The organisational values and purposes of Beeslack All Stars Disabled Sports Club helped Hollie understand what is important about sports and how it can be such a social network for members. “The main thing with All Stars that made it so infectious was that it had whole families involved. Parents and siblings would get to come along as well. It just had a really nice feel to it. Everybody was welcome, it was all hands-on deck.”   

As well as their role with the YPSP, Hollie works for LEAP Sports Scotland as a Training and Development Officer. This has resulted with Hollie joining SDS with a wealth of knowledge, including delivering LGBTQIA+ active inclusion training/information sessions. These sessions provide best practice guidance for including LGBTQIA+ people in sport, as well as helpful terminology to understand and explain the barriers to sport many LGBTQIA+ people can experience. 

This is something that Hollie feels passionate about and something they feel like they can add with their own personal experience. “Being non-binary, I found it quite hard to find my place in sport which is so often unnecessarily gender-segregated and so it feels really important to me to be able, and trusted by LEAP, to educate others on trans-inclusive sport in particular. Since I have had personal experience of making some big inclusivity changes in student sport already, I think that set me up well to speak about how easy it can sometimes be to make an environment not just accepting but properly welcoming”, said Hollie.  

This role with LEAP Sport is something that Hollie feels can positively impact their role with the SDS YPSP. 

If you would be interested in finding out more about Euan’s Guide and how to leave a review, you can do so by visiting their website. 

If you are looking for an adventure this summer, registration is now open for SDS’s annual Summer Camp: participant form and volunteer form.  

To keep up-to-date on all of SDS’s ongoing work. Make sure to follow Scottish Disability Sport on Facebook, Instagram andX.