The Active Girls Committee (AGC), facilitated by Sport Aberdeen’s Active Schools team has been awarded £7,100 after a successful grant application to the Year of Young People National Lottery Fund.

AGC’s aim is to get more girls more active. The committee comprises of girls from each academy across the city who endeavour to inspire their peers and increase the number of girls taking part in regular sport and physical activity.

The funding will allow the AGC to increase the size and scope of their project across the city.

Active Schools Coordinator, Nicole Gordon said:

“It is fantastic that our Active Girls Committee have successfully received this award from the Year of Young People National Lottery Fund.

“The Active Girls Committee leaders are already working very hard throughout Aberdeen City to encourage more girls and young women to get involved in sport and physical activity.

“This money will allow them to expand their great work. The group are fantastic role models and this year will continue their focus on breaking down barriers currently stopping many young girls from participating in sport.”

The AGC have been planning various projects which will focus on increasing participation in sport and physical activity for young girls, with a strong emphasis on those from P7 to S2 age; a crucial transition period from primary to secondary school which affects individuals physically and socially.

Physical activity levels decline during this time for various reasons such as changes in routine, lack of confidence or social exclusion. The project therefore aims to break down these barriers for girls and offers a fun and safe environment to get active.

The activities will target girls with a focus on those aged 11-14 years. By utilising Active Girls Committee Leaders as role models, they encourage the participation of girls in new sports or physical activities and games. The AGC will make decisions and work collectively with other girls to increase participation whilst breaking down social, emotional and mental barriers.

The Young People National Lottery Fund is designed to inspire young people to lead active lives and encourage positive mental health.

The Heritage Lottery Fund, Big Lottery Fund and Sport Scotland along with Spirit of 2012 Trust created the fund to award grants for heritage, community and sports projects focusing on young people in Scotland.

Heritage Lottery Fund Scotland Chair, Seona Reid, said:

“I am delighted that Sport Aberdeen’s Active Girls Committee has been successful in securing an award from the Year of Young People National Lottery Fund.

“This funding will help young people to make a positive change in their lives and I wish Sport Aberdeen every success as it works to improve young people’s health and wellbeing in celebration of Scotland’s Year of Young People.”