Across Edinburgh, there are over 1,300 children and young people growing up in the care system. Many of them face barriers to taking part in sport and physical activity, such as the cost, low confidence, and not having the right equipment and lack of role models.

Edinburgh Leisure’s funding manager, Jenny Selman said: “We believe every child should have the opportunity to enjoy an active childhood. You Can supports care experienced young people in Edinburgh to get active by providing free access to our facilities, 1:1 support from an instructor and access to group activities. The project helps them to reap the benefits of being active, such as improving their health and wellbeing, making new friends, boosting their confidence and developing healthy habits.”

One young person who has benefitted from getting active through You Can is Taylor, who goes to the gym on Monday mornings with her instructor Gemma. 

 “Before I started working with Gemma, I struggled with poor mental health, low confidence, and difficult relationships with my family. I spent a lot of time alone in my bedroom rather than going to school. 

 “Now I look forward to going to the gym. Even if I’m not feeling 100%, I’ll never miss a session. When I’m feeling low, my Gran reminds me about the rush of feel-good endorphins I get after I exercise, and I know she’s right. Starting my week with a trip to the gym makes me feel more motivated and means I’m far more likely to go to school.”

The Scottish Children’s Lottery was launched to raise funds for and improve the lives of young people across Scotland.

Scott Millar, Charity Manger at The Scottish Children’s Lottery said: "The Scottish Children’s Lottery (Chance to Flourish) are delighted to provide funding support to the Edinburgh Leisure’s You Can project. Sport is such a powerful tool in enabling and enhancing health and wellbeing. There are still many barriers that prevent our young people from taking part but the ‘You Can’ project actively removes these hurdles and allows those involved to flourish”.

For further information on You Can, visit: https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/active-communities/you-can

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