Changing lives through sport and physical activityAt Active Stirling, we’ve spent more than a decade nurturing our organisation that sits at the heart of the Stirling community. A trusted, well-respected organisation that reflects the love of and talent for sport, physical activity and health and wellbeing across the Stirling area. But we do more than simply give people a chance to get physically active. At Active Stirling we actively use sport and physical activity to do social good. But many don’t know what we do and how we do this. The ‘active’ in our name doesn’t just mean exercise. It actually stands for how active we are within all our Stirling communities. In fact, we’re redefining what the ‘active’ in Active Stirling stands for, by using sport and physical activity to do social good in our communities. Like supporting military veterans through physical activity. Providing Stirling’s refugees specialist sport and activity programmes. Reducing the inclusion gap and empowering females’ participation. Tailoring specific programmes for people with a disability and carers. Inspiring young people by creating volunteer opportunities. Subsiding health and fitness programmes for health referred patients. Giving all 47 local schools free extra-curricular programmes. Encouraging older people to get active through tailored classes. And using health and fitness to help people recover from addiction. And we do this through our work in maximising proving the power that sport and physical activity can provide for anyone, regardless of age, ability or circumstance. We go above and beyond to make sport and physical activity accessible and inclusive to all, especially those with the most to gain from being active, by understanding the barriers to taking part and doing all we can to remove them. We are actively trying to make the communities of Stirling a better and more energised place. We are redefining what the ‘active’ in ‘Active Stirling’ means. And the best bit is, that so many of our members and customers are already a part of this movement without even realising. From taking part in fitness classes, going to the gym or for a swim they are all actively helping us provide opportunities for other people to be active. It’s through our commercial income, like such as memberships at The PEAK, that we are able to generate revenue that we and then reinvest any surpluses we make to help change lives. in Stirling through sport and physical activity. Feel good, do good |
Bikes Without Barriers: Inclusive Cycling for Young People
Meet Etive House, St Modan’s ASN Provision Group
Imagine the joy of cycling freely—the wind in your hair, the thrill of movement, and the sense of independence that comes with every turn of the wheels. For the young people of Etive House, this experience is now a reality, thanks to Bikes Without Barriers.
For over three years, students from primary and high school, alongside their carers, have been taking part in these adapted cycling sessions. More than just an activity, these sessions offer a unique sense of freedom, empowering young people to make choices and experience movement in ways they rarely can.
But Bikes Without Barriers is about more than just cycling—it’s about creating a vibrant, supportive community where everyone belongs. Volunteers are always on hand to offer encouragement and ensure every session is safe, inclusive, and fun.
The Impact on Etive House Students
The transformation in students at Etive House has been remarkable. Confidence is soaring, social skills are strengthening, and overall wellbeing has improved. The sense of connection and joy in every session is undeniable. Watching these young people thrive is truly heartwarming.
Let’s hear from some of the teachers and staff from Etive House;
Diane: “We’ve seen remarkable improvements in our students. Their confidence, social skills, and overall health and fitness have grown so much—it’s truly inspiring!”
Liz: “It’s amazing they have an age-appropriate activity that can be tailored to their needs. Bikes Without Barriers has become a little community, and we love coming every week to see everyone including the volunteers.”
Mrs Poole: “I’ve really noticed the difference in confidence of some pupils throughout the term.”
Emma Morren: “It’s the only exercise that they get to do each week and enjoy it. It also gives us the opportunity to have a fun time together.”
What Do Participants Love About Bikes Without Barriers?
Tristan: "I love going on the bikes, they make me go super-fast. When we go outside, I feel like a racer, like Turbo from Wreck-It-Ralph. I love coming every week!"
Check out Tristan and a few attendees in action on the bikes!
Here’s what a few others shared with us:
Katie: “I’ve lost so much weight that my Type 2 diabetes is gone!”
Danny: “Yay! I like the bikes.”
Mitchell: “I like to be able to try different bikes, it helps regulate my energy and mood – it's the best part of my school day.”
A Word of Thanks
Ashley Forrester, ASN Teacher at Etive House, shared:
“Bikes Without Barriers is a fantastic programme for our ASN group - our learners look forward to coming every week. It’s a great opportunity for them to take part in exercise and be part of a safe environment that’s different and new to them. They become more independent, make their own decisions, choose who they want to play with and grow in confidence – all while having so much fun!
They've built great relationships with Active Stirling staff and volunteers and really value their support and being part of their community and world”.
The Active Stirling Journey: Breaking Barriers, Building Inclusion
At Active Stirling, inclusivity isn’t just a goal—it’s a commitment. We believe that everyone, regardless of ability, should have the chance to experience the joy of movement.
That’s why Bikes Without Barriers is more than just a cycling programme. It’s a lifeline for young people and adults living with disabilities or facing barriers to sports and physical activity. Every week, we witness the transformative impact of these adapted cycling sessions at Etive House—unlocking joy, independence, and a powerful sense of belonging for those who take part.
This is what real change looks like. Join us in creating a more inclusive, active future for all!
Meet Graham and Edna Sinclair
Graham and Edna Sinclair, a retired couple in their 80s, have always valued staying connected and involved in their community. However, like many older adults, they were mindful of the challenges that come with age. Years ago, they turned to Active Stirling for guidance on how to maintain their health and fitness, and their journey since then has been truly inspiring. Through expert advice and supportive classes led by Physical Activity and Inclusion Officer, Laura Taylor, Graham and Edna discovered the importance of staying active to maintain their health and vitality.
The Active Stirling Journey
Through the years, Graham and Edna have participated in a wide range of fitness classes, health walks and events hosted by Active Stirling, including weekly sessions in Killearn. Beyond these local activities, they’ve also supported projects at Stirling University and Edinburgh, organised by Active Stirling.
Their story reflects the value of consistent support and guidance of health and wellbeing. Their active lifestyle has enhanced their overall well-being and demonstrated how effective regular exercise can be in later life. The Sinclair’s credit Active Stirling’s dedicated team for not only offering practical advice and encouragement but also creating a welcoming environment that inspires long-term commitment to health and wellness. Even now, the couple attends weekly classes with enthusiasm and gratitude.
A Word of Thanks
"Thanks to Active Stirling, the lessons we’ve learned, the enthusiasm and encouragement from the staff, and their expert advice have given us a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life" - Graham and Edna Sinclair
Their story is a testament to the positive impact of staying active and connected, no matter your age.
