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.