Edinburgh Leisure, the city’s largest provider of sports and leisure services, has published its 2024-2025 Impact Report showcasing a year of record-breaking participation, community innovation, and strategic resilience. The report highlight’s the charity’s unwavering commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of Edinburgh, despite ongoing financial and societal challenges.
Reflecting on the past year, Jen Holland, CEO of Edinburgh Leisure, who joined the organisation in March 2024, said: “This year has tested us – but it’s also strengthened us.
“Rising costs and shifting public health needs have demanded creativity and collaboration. We’ve responded by doubling down on our purpose: helping Edinburgh get active, stay connected, and thrive. Our impact in not just a reflection on what we’ve achieved – it’s an invitation to join us in shaping a healthier, happier city.”
The 2024–2025 Impact Report showcases a year of growth and innovation aligned with Edinburgh Leisure’s strategic goals.
Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programmes reached thousands of residents facing barriers to physical activity, including:
The charity expanded its Steady Steps falls prevention programme, launching Balanced Life, a new two-tiered initiative integrated with NHS Lothian’s Falls Prevention and Management Framework. It now delivers 73 weekly classes, supporting 2,632 older adults to improve strength, balance, and confidence.
Edinburgh Leisure launched its first Net Zero Strategy (2025–2030), and in the year achieved:
Malcolm Reid, newly appointed Chair of Edinburgh Leisure, added: “Physical activity is a proven ‘miracle cure’ for health and wellbeing. Yet less than half of Edinburgh’s population meets the recommended 2.5 hours of weekly activity. Our mission – to inspire individuals, families, and communities to move more – is more urgent than ever. This report shows how we’re making that happen, together.
“As a charity with a social conscience, our purpose goes beyond profit. It’s about people – supporting healthier lives, creating safe and welcoming spaces, connecting communities, and working towards net zero. Our services are designed to be inclusive and accessible, helping everyone achieve their personal best at every stage of life. We invite citizens, partners, and supporters to be part of the journey – whether as participants, volunteers, donors, or advocates.”
The full Impact Report is available to download on the Edinburgh Leisure website.
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