Message from Walking Football Scotland President

As President of Walking Football Scotland, I am both proud and privileged to reflect on the strength and significance of our partnership with the increasing number of health and wellbeing partners we are actively engaged with including, Chest Heart Stroke Scotland, SAMH, Age Scotland, Movement for Health, Prostate Cancer, Walking Scotland, Alzheimer Scotland and Parkinson’s UK.

These collaborations are rooted in a shared commitment to improving lives across Scotland—promoting physical activity, enhancing mental wellbeing, and fostering inclusive communities.

Walking football provides a unique and accessible opportunity for individuals of all abilities, particularly those recovering from or living with long-term health conditions, to re-engage with sport in a safe and supportive environment.

Through our partnerships, we have seen first-hand the transformative impact that regular participation, social connection, and structured support can deliver. Together, we are not only encouraging healthier lifestyles, but also helping to rebuild confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging among participants.

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to everyone involved in making these partnerships such a success. They stand as a powerful example of what can be achieved when organisations align with a common purpose and a shared vision for positive change.

We look forward to continuing this important work together in the years ahead.
David Winnie
President
Walking Football Scotland

About

The main objectives of the event are.

to raise funds for our nominated charities on the day, through fees to participate, some football related challenges and donations in the lead up to and during the day

to enable our partners to discuss their own services to those watching and participating throughout the day and identify specific resources they have available that could contribute to improving the health and wellbeing of those attending or others they care for

to reduce the long-term burden on the NHS by enabling people to improve their own health and wellbeing

to raise awareness of the benefits of walking football to people in the target audience groups. i.e. attract new people to come along, for them to participate for an hour or so, and hopefully be encouraged to attend walking football sessions at times and locations that suit them best.