From life-changing recoveries to community impact: Edinburgh Leisure showcases its role through Seriously Social campaign:
As part of the UK-wide #SeriouslySocial campaign this June, Edinburgh Leisure is showcasing how it puts people above profit every day, sharing real stories that show how community leisure transforms lives across Edinburgh.
Led by Community Leisure UK, the campaign runs from Monday 8 to Saturday 13 June and highlights the vital role charitable leisure trusts play in supporting healthier, more connected and inclusive communities across the UK.
Reflecting this shared purpose, Edinburgh Leisure will spotlight five key themes: health and wellbeing, the community, employment and skills, inclusion, and the environment. Each is brought to life through the experiences of the people and communities it supports.
Supporting a healthier, more resilient city
Edinburgh Leisure plays a key role in improving health and wellbeing across the city by reducing barriers to physical activity and creating inclusive opportunities for people of all ages and abilities.
As the largest provider of sport and leisure facilities in Edinburgh, it creates opportunities for people at every stage of life to be active, connect with others and build healthier habits within their communities.
Real stories behind the impact
The Seriously Social campaign shares a series of real-life stories that demonstrate this impact in action.
One example is Jennifer, a participant in Edinburgh Leisure’s community-based falls prevention programme, Balanced Life. After a broken back and serious illness left her relying on a walker, the programme helped her rebuild strength and confidence step by step, leading to a moment that she thought she might have lost: picking up her grandchildren from school.
At Gracemount Leisure Centre, Edinburgh Leisure’s swimming and multisport sessions for children with additional support needs have transformed weekends for Danny, Andor and their families. With consistent support and tailored activities, the sessions have built confidence and created space for both participation and respite.
These are just a few examples from across the week. The campaign brings together a wider range of stories, highlighting the many ways Edinburgh Leisure supports communities, from health and wellbeing, connection and confidence to careers and environmental action.
You can explore all stories and follow the campaign at
https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/seriously-social/
Leading with purpose
Jen Holland, CEO of Edinburgh Leisure, said: “What makes Edinburgh Leisure special is the impact we have on people’s everyday lives. These stories show that it’s not just about being active, it’s about rebuilding confidence, creating connections and opening up opportunities.
“Whether it’s someone regaining their independence, a young person taking their first steps into employment, or communities coming together to support each other, this is what putting people above profit really looks like using the power of sport and physical activity.
“Seriously Social is a great opportunity to highlight these moments and the impact Edinburgh Leisure makes across the city every single day.”
A sector driven by social purpose
Kirsty Cumming, CEO of Community Leisure UK, said: “Our members serve everyone in their communities regardless of age or ability.
“They are places where arts can power mental wellbeing, physical activity can create social connections and where health programmes meet community need. Seriously Social is a campaign that focuses on our sector’s greatest USP, our social heart.
“As social enterprises and charities, they put people above profit. Reinvesting money for the betterment of society. And that is why we developed Seriously Social, to celebrate the difference they make.”
