As FND National Awareness Day (March 25th) approaches, Edinburgh Leisure highlights its commitment to creating accessible and inclusive facilities for those living with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), a complex neurological condition that affects brain functioning.
Edinburgh Leisure’s dedication is exemplified through the story of Ruth Desire, a 56-year-old care assistant whose life was transformed when she found her “happy place” in Edinburgh Leisure’s swimming pools after being diagnosed with FND following a fall in 2008.
“Learning to expect the unexpected has become my mantra,” says Ruth, who experiences a range of challenging symptoms including drop attacks, mobility issues, dissociative seizures, and visual disturbances.
“Before my diagnosis, I enjoyed cycling and swimming. While cycling is no longer possible for me, Edinburgh Leisure has helped me stay active in other ways.”
Tailored Support Making a Difference
Edinburgh Leisure’s approach to supporting customers with complex needs like FND demonstrates how small accommodations can make significant impacts. For Ruth, these include:
- Dimming lights around pool areas to prevent seizure triggers
- Access to disabled facilities with emergency alarms for safety
- Adaptive class environments with modified lighting
- Staff trained to recognise and respond to FND episodes
Ruth attends aquafit classes 4-5 times weekly across multiple Edinburgh Leisure venues including Dalry, Ainslie Park, Leith Victoria, Portobello Baths, and Meadowbank Sports Centre, describing how “aquafit helps loosen my joints, which is beneficial for the muscle aches caused by FND-related spasms.”
Staff Going Above and Beyond
The organisation’s commitment extends beyond facility adaptations to include compassionate staff who understand the variable nature of FND.
Kate Cramb, Operations Manager at Portobello Swim Centre said: “We’re proud of our team members who have taken the time to understand Ruth’s condition and provide personalised support. Our goal is for everyone to feel welcome and safe while enjoying the physical and mental benefits of staying active.”
Ruth particularly acknowledges several staff members who have been instrumental in her journey, including Maggie (LA), Robbie (Supervisor), and Val (Coach) at Portobello; Emma, who coaches both Aquafit at Portobello and Active Life classes at Meadowbank and is particularly vigilant, having witnessed Ruth’s FND in various forms; and Susan McIntosh (Leisure Attendant), Stuart Cavers (Supervisor) and all the staff at Leith Victoria Swim Centre who have assisted Ruth with various FND episodes.
FND Awareness Day – March 25th
Functional Neurological Disorder is a brain network disorder that can affect anyone of any age. Despite its prevalence, with neurologists seeing cases frequently in their clinics, there remains limited awareness and knowledge about the condition.
FND National Awareness Day on March 25th provides an opportunity for communities to unite as #Voices4FND to influence positive change. The day highlights the urgent need for accessible specialist care for those diagnosed with FND, many of whom are currently left to navigate their condition without adequate support.
Edinburgh Leisure’s Healthy Active Minds programme, which provided Ruth with a specialised membership following her GP referral for stress, anxiety, and depression, exemplifies how targeted health initiatives can significantly improve quality of life for those with complex conditions.
About Edinburgh Leisure
Edinburgh Leisure is a charity dedicated to creating opportunities for everyone to get active, stay active, and achieve more. With facilities across the city, the organisation is committed to inclusive programming that benefits the physical and mental wellbeing of all Edinburgh residents.
Further Information
For more information about FND, visit www.fndaction.org.uk or www.neurosymptoms.org.
For details about Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities Programmes, visit https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/active-communities
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