Month: October 2020

15/10/2020

Outstanding commitment to volunteering sees GDS Vice Chair awarded BEM

A dedicated and long-term member of the Grampian Disability Sport committee has been awarded a British Empire Medal in the latest Queen’s Birthday Honours list for her commitment to volunteering & making a difference to people with disabilities.

Pauline Stirling, GDS’ Vice Chair, has taken on a multitude of roles since the creation of Aberdeenshire Disability Sport 20 years ago, and has spent an incredible 50 years volunteering in various roles for various organisations & has been a key driver behind developing inclusive practice across the whole of Grampian.

As well as being a dedicated swimming coach with specialist swimming club, Garioch Gators, Pauline coordinates entries for national swimming events on behalf of GDS, volunteers at regional galas, has played an integral role with Special Olympics Grampian, developed her own disability-specific multi-sport and activity opportunities in her local area and even had a stint with her local Cub group.

Pauline is an incredibly talented and dedicated volunteer with a passion for inclusion and we’re incredibly grateful for the invaluable contributions she’s made over the years. The awarding of a BEM is so very much justified.

Congratulations to Pauline on this awesome award, and a further congratulations to inclusive Grampian table tennis coach, Charlie Flint, who also earned himself a BEM for his efforts in developing table tennis across the region.

If you, or anyone you know, lives with a physical, sensory or learning disability in Grampian and is interested in getting involved in sport, or if you’d like to get involved in volunteering with Grampian Disability Sport, please get in touch with Alison on alison.shaw@scottishdisabilitysport.com or 07828 744 848.

15/10/2020

Inclusive Trampoline Takes A Leap Forward in Moray

Progress has been made in the development of inclusive trampoline opportunities in Moray thanks to a donation of specialist equipment.

Moray Sports Centre took delivery of a gently used Sag Bag kindly donated by John Wills of Banchory Trampoline Club. The equipment is beanbag-like with a wipe-clean surface and provides a safe and secure surface for people with profound disabilities to lie on whilst on the trampoline. Long handles allow the coach to manoeuvre the participant whilst rebounding them on the trampoline bed, enabling people with limited mobility the opportunity to enjoy the thrill, fun and sensory input of jumping on the trampoline.

The Centre is also fortunate to benefit from a Changing Places facility, an inclusive play park with accessible equipment, a well-stocked café and even wheelchair accessible picnic tables so is a fantastic venue for families to enjoy a day out.

We look forward to hopefully being able to offer inclusive trampoline opportunities in the near future!

If you, or anyone you know, lives with a physical, sensory or learning disability in Grampian and is interested in getting involved in sport, please get in touch with Alison on alison.shaw@scottishdisabilitysport.com or 07828 744 848.

12/10/2020

Bowls Scotland select High Performance squad for Birmingham 2022

Bowls Scotland are delighted to announce our High Performance squad as preparations get underway for the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

The squad selected is a preliminary shortlist of athletes that will be in contention for the final selection process for the Games. Those successful, will go on and represent Team Scotland in Birmingham as Scotland’s lawn bowlers will be looking to bring home more medals after major successes at the last two Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and the Gold Coast.

There is an abundance of national and international experience throughout the men’s, women’s and parabowls squads. This will be the first opportunity for Scotland’s elite players to train under the new High Performance structure, which will help ensure the final squad selected to play on the greens at Royal Leamington Spa in 2022 will be as prepared as possible.

This is the first stage of the High Performance programme and resources will soon be put in place to grow the structure and deliver a similar level of support for our developing players who are aspiring to represent Scotland at future World Championships and Commonwealth Games.

Eight high-quality coaches have also been selected to help deliver effective training sessions and one-to-one assistance for the players. Alongside their significant coaching knowledge, several of these coaches have represented Scotland at the highest level and will be vital additions to the new programme.

Bowls Scotland’s High Performance Coach, David Gourlay MBE, said: “The selected squads demonstrates the depth of talent and experience that exists in Scottish bowls and signifies the first step on our journey to Birmingham. I have complete confidence in the players selected and also the coaching structure which will support our players.”

Bowls Scotland’s Para-Bowls Co-Ordinator, Bob Christie, added: “The selection panel have named a mixture of experienced and up and coming talented players to compete for places at Birmingham 2022. This has given them a great opportunity to develop into medal contenders whilst engaging in the exciting new High Performance programme which is tailor made to meet the players requirements.”

The Para Bowls High Performance squad is:

Para Bowls
Robert Barr (Jordanhill BC – Visually Impaired)
John Fox (Spateson BC – Visually Impaired)
Melanie Inness (Coltbridge BC – Visually Impaired)
Mary Stevenson (Shanks BC – Visually Impaired)
Garry Brown (Blackwood Victoria BC – Physically Disabled)
George Guthrie (Maryhill BC – Physically Disabled)
Garry Hood (Ayr Craigie BC – Physically Disabled)
Rosemary Lenton – (Crichton BC – Physcially Disabled)
Barbara McMillan (Kelty BC – Physically Disabled)
Kevin Wallace (Clackmannan BC – Physically Disabled)
John Wardrope (Ayr Seafield BC – Physically Disabled)
Pauline Wilson (Willowbank BC – Physically Disabled)

Coaches
Natalie Docherty (Kelvindale BC)
Sarah Jane Ewing (Abbeyview BC)
Chris McGready (Grangemouth BC)
Eric McMillan – (Cowdenbeath BC)
Billy Mellors (Haddington BC)
Frazer Muirhead (Bankton Mains BC)
David Peacock (Danderhall MW BC)
George Sneddon (Broxburn BC)

09/10/2020

‘Young Start- Apprentice Coach’ Programme

Congratulations to all the Young Start Coach Apprentices who successfully completed their one year training throughout 2019/2020 and welcome to the new cohort of young people who are just starting out on their coaching journey for 2020/2021.

The programme supported by The National Lottery Community Fund will offer athletes the opportunity to thrive and become sports coaches by:

Accessing new skills and training opportunities to support them to gain coaching qualifications.
Providing support of an experienced mentor
Signposting to employment and volunteering opportunities
Gaining new friends
Building confidence to put learning into practice
Developing their independence through better physical, mental and emotional wellbeing

The coach apprentices who successfully completed their training in 19/20 were:

Callum Sloan
Craig Smith
Matthew Copley
Laura Pilkington
Steven McCormick
Adam Donnachie
Peter Waugh
Michael McCraw
Shannon Crosbie
Neil Ferguson
Mark Lumdsen
Caitlyn Ross
Abby Cook

What a fabulous group of young people and SDS is proud of all their achievements and wish them well in their coaching. Find out more about the programme by watching the Young Start summary video here

SDS welcomed the next group of young people onto the Young Start Coach Apprentice programme on Monday 5 October. They are:

Philipp Euler
Lennon Hughes
Brenna Collie
Shubhankar Gokhale
Murran Mackay
Cameron Adam
Finlay Davidson
Cameron Hemphill
Callum Sloan
Grace Stirling
Owen McGookin
Sophie Jones
Abigail Bainbridge
Peter Waugh

09/10/2020

SDS Phase 3 Return to Sport and Physical Activity Guidance Paper (updated 9 October)

This guidance is being produced to support athletes, participants with a disability, SDS Branches, coaches, volunteers and staff on Phase 3 of the return of outdoor sport and physical activity in Scotland.This guidance follows the Scottish Government’s updates route map Coronavirus (COVID-19) Phase 3: Scotland’s route map update – 10 September 2020.

The free NHS Scotland Protect Scotland app has been designed to help us protect each other, reduce the spread of Coronavirus and avoid further lockdowns. By using the app and following current public health measures we can all stay safe when we meet up, socialise, work or travel. To find out more and download the app please visit protect.scot.

Sporting activities can now be undertaken, providing all activity is consistent with current Scottish Government guidance on health, physical distancing and hygiene – you will also need to make sure that your club, facility and participants are made aware and can adapt to changes in guidance at short notice. Information on Scottish Governments approach to managing COVID-19 is available at Scottish Government: Coronavirus in Scotland.

Where Scottish Government local measures and restrictions are in place guidance detailed will supersede the corresponding guidance identified within this section. See here and Appendix 1 below for latest update.

People who are symptomatic should self-isolate for 10 days and household members for 14 days as per info on NHS guidance. No one who is self-isolating should attend a sports facility or activity.

To manage a safe return to sport and leisure activities it is a mandatory requirement that all clubs, facility operators and deliverers put in place comprehensive Test & Protect procedures to help break chains of transmission of Coronavirus (COVID-19). Further information is available within this guidance and at Scottish Government: Test & Protect.

The free NHS Scotland Protect Scotland app has been designed to help us protect each other, reduce the spread of coronavirus and avoid further lockdowns. By using the app and following current public health measures we can all stay safe when we meet up, socialise, work or travel. To find out more and download the app please visit protect.scot

SGBs, clubs and participants should be aware that the easing of restrictions does not mean that all facilities will open immediately. Clubs, owners and operators will require time to consider all the implications of opening facilities and put plans in place to re-engage staff and to set up operations that ensure the safety of participants, staff and volunteers. This is a difficult time for everyone so please be patient.

Where a participant with a disability requires functional support to enable their participation in physical activity and sport this can be provided without maintaining physical distancing. This support can be provided by a coach or other individual. In such circumstance the responsible ‘Covid Officer’ should consider appropriate mitigating actions as part of the risk assessment. For instance, providing appropriate PPE, limiting the number of participants an individual provides functional support to, limiting the duration spent in close proximity, or a combination of actions

Further information on supporting the inclusion of participants with a disability can be found here.

Equality & Inclusion

Covid-19 is affecting everyone. But the impact of the pandemic is not being felt equally. Before the pandemic certain groups were less likely to participate in sport and physical activity. These groups are also the most at risk of worsening inequalities due to Covid-19:

Older people
Disabled people
Ethnic minorities
Women
People from deprived communities

It is more important than ever to consider inclusive guidance for people who need extra support to be active and sports facility operators should consider this as part of their work to encourage people to return.

The evidence emerging has clear implications for how we design and deliver sport and physical activity. Some key areas for consideration include:

Communication – Digital exclusion is a key issue. With so many services and so much information moving online it risks worsening the health impacts of the pandemic. We have to think innovatively about the range of ways we can provide information to people about sport and physical activity.

Accessibility – Accessibility of our environments is another key issue emerging from the pandemic. As clubs and leisure centres re-open it’s important to build understanding of people’s specific accessibility needs around things like hygiene, physical distancing and face coverings so we can provide the best possible support to people to take part in sport and physical activity.

Anxiety, mental health and wellbeing – The pandemic is leading to an increased risk of anxiety and mental ill-health for people who share all characteristics. We know that sport and physical activity can have significant benefits for people’s mental health so it’s vital that we continue to promote those benefits, so people are encouraged to get involved.

Confidence – Confidence to return to sport is a big issue across all groups. We know that some groups are at higher risk from Covid-19 than others (including some ethnic minorities, disabled people and households experiencing poverty). These groups may be even more nervous about returning to sport or starting to participate. They are also less likely to participate in sport in the first place, so we’ll need to give extra attention to their needs to help build their confidence.

The information outlined below is generic and should be used to inform the development of suitable sport specific guidance which can be shared with participants, clubs, local authorities/trusts, third sector and other sports facility operators.

Should a return to sport be possible for your sport during phase 3 in line with government and your sport specific Scottish Governing Body guidelines. Further guidance will be available from your mainstream Scottish Governing Body to advise you on the implications for your individual sport. For further information on sportscotland’s guidance on Phase 3: return to sport and physical activity click here and Scottish Governing Bodies guidance click here.

Permitted Sport and Leisure Activities

Subject to the guidelines below a ‘field of play bubble’ can be created whilst an organised sporting or leisure activity is taking place indoors or outdoors, in effect suspending physical distancing guidelines for the duration of the activity.

Where there is likely to be proximity (within 2m) or contact between participants aged 12 years or over involved in a sporting activity, mitigating actions must be put in place to minimise risk and keep participants safe. For instance:

SGB guidance should focus on providing sporting activity involving as few participants as possible, for the minimum amount of time, whilst still allowing the activity to run effectively. This may also require a change to game formats, numbers and/or rules to minimise risk to participants.

As soon as a participant has completed training, a competition or event, they should leave the field of play/venue.

No spectating should take place other than where a parent or carer is supervising a child or vulnerable adult or when following specific sector guidance for events.

Face coverings do not need to be worn when undertaking physical activity, exercise or showering.

Outdoor Sport & Leisure Activity

Facility operators may open all outdoor sports areas, courts and pitches if documented risk assessments are undertaken and all appropriate measures are put in place to ensure the safety of participants, staff and volunteers. Please refer to additional guidance produced by sportscotland at: Getting Your Facilities Fit for Sport.

Adults and children can take part in organised outdoor non-contact and contact sports training, competition or events if guidance within this document is followed.

A sporting ‘field of play bubble’ can consist of a maximum of 30 people including coaches and officials at any one time. In exceptional circumstances, numbers may be increased, but only if approved directly by Scottish Government or where specific Scottish Governing Bodies of sport (SGBs) guidance and mitigating actions have been agreed by sportscotland.

Where SGBs or sports facility operators are considering running outdoor sport or leisure activities with multiple bubbles of 30 people taking part, they must ensure that these bubbles do not mix at any time including before, during or after the activity. Consideration should be given, for example, to staggered starts, different access/egress points at venues, parking arrangements and the duration of activities.

SGBs and sports facility operators should introduce a period of training to familiarise participants with guidelines before running competitions.

Outdoor group coaching for organised sport and leisure activities including aerobics and fitness classes can take place with up to 30 people at any one time, including the coach, if physical distancing is maintained.

Indoor Sport & Leisure Activity

Indoor sport and leisure facilities can open if Scottish Government Coronavirus (COVID-19): Guidance for the opening of indoor and outdoor sport and leisure facilities is fully implemented.

Indoor contact and non-contact sports training, activity and competition can be undertaken by children up to and including the age of 11 years.

Indoor non-contact sports training, activity and competition can be undertaken by those 12 years of age or older.

Non-contact sports where participants would normally encroach within 2m can resume if mitigating measures are introduced to limit this risk. For instance, the implementation of physically distanced training or competition with amended rules which support physical distancing. Any proposed changes must be included in SGB guidance and approved by Scottish Government or sportscotland.

The number of participants allowed to take part in indoor sport or leisure activity must be risk assessed by the sports facility operator following Scottish Government Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance on the opening of indoor and outdoor sport and leisure facilities and sport specific SGB Guidance.

Local restrictions

Where a locality or region is subject to localised restrictions, not all of the changes above will apply. Details of local restrictions are available here and in Appendix 1 below.

Coaching & Instructing

Guidance for coaches, leaders, personal trainers, and instructors (herein referred to as coaches) is available at Getting your coaches ready for sport .

Coaches can take organised outdoor group training sessions with a maximum of 30 people involved at any one time but it is encouraged that coaches work with smaller groups where practical.

During all sessions appropriate risk assessed physical distancing and hygiene measures should be put in place to protect participants.

Boccia

For the sport of boccia there is the ability to return depending on the readiness of facility providers to open to clubs and sessions for training purposes only.

Competition will be considered in the future. SDS will publish further updates and guidance as and when competition is allowed to return.

SDS has published a separate Return to Boccia Guidance Paper. To access this guidance please follow this link: Return to Boccia

General Guidance

To prevent spread of the virus, please follow the FACTS:

Face coverings
Avoid crowded places
Clean hands regularly
Two metre distance
Self-isolate and book a test if you have symptoms

IMPORTANT: People who are symptomatic should self-isolate for 10 days; household members for 14 days as per info on NHS guidance. No one who is self-isolating should attend a sports facility/activity.

Shielding is currently paused and it is the individuals responsibility to decide when it is safe for their return to sport. The advice is highlighted in Coronavirus (COVID-19) Phase 3: Scotland’s route map update – 10 September 2020 a separate Route Map. The advice to people is to continue to strictly follow the guidelines on physical distancing, handwashing, surface cleaning and respiratory hygiene guidance on the NHS Inform website.

What to do if someone in the club or session has Covid-19

sportscotland Phase 3: Return to Sport & Physical Activity

For further guidance on the following areas please refer to the Phase 3; Return to Sport and Physical Activity document produced by sportscotland:

Furlough Scheme
Sport Facility and Operational Guidance
Equipment Provision and Use
Travel Guidance
Definitions
Test & Protect
Changing Facilities, Showers & Toilets
Organised Sporting Activity for Children & Adults
Health, Safety & Hygiene
First Aid
Guidance for Participants
Physical Distancing
Spectators
Covid-19 Officer Training sportscotland Covid Officer E-learning Module

SDS key messages

This guidance relates only to sport and physical activity in Scotland.
Further guidance will be available from your mainstream Scottish Governing Body to advise you on the implications for your individual sport. Click here
Guidance for coaches, leaders, personal trainers, and instructors (herein referred to as coaches) is available at Getting your coaches ready for sport.
From the 3rd August 2020 restrictions were lifted on the number of households (or extended households) that can be coached per day.
From the 24th August 2020 coaches can take organised outdoor group training sessions with a maximum of 30 people involved at any one time.
During outdoor group training sessions appropriate risk assessed physical distancing and hygiene measures should be put in place to protect participants.
Face coverings: Mandatory (with limited exceptions) on public transport and in shops
Be kind, friendly and considerate to everyone you meet
Follow Public Health guidelines for hygiene
Any branch or club activity must be in accordance with the guidelines provided
Exercise well within your capabilities · For further details please refer to sportscotland’s guidance here

Our priority remains to protect the health of our coaches, volunteers, athletes, participant, staff and the wider community and help to suppress the spread of the Covid-19 virus. We should all continue to follow the government’s and public health guidelines.

APPENDIX 1: LOCAL MEASURES & RESTRICTIONS

Introduction

The guidance within this appendix is applicable to sport and physical activity facilities and activities where Scottish Government have identified the requirement for local measures and restrictions to be applied.
This guidance is not applicable to professional or performance sports activity which is approved through the ‘Resumption of Performance Sport’ process.
Local measures and restrictions will come into force for licensed premises from 18:00 on Friday 9 October, with all other restrictions applying from 00:01 Saturday 10 October and run until midnight on Sunday 1st November 2020.
The restrictions currently apply to the following NHS Health Boards and local authorities, but be aware these may change if infection rates increase in other parts of Scotland; NHS Ayrshire & Arran (North, South and East Ayrshire), NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde (Glasgow, East and West Dunbartonshire, Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire, and Inverclyde), NHS Lanarkshire (North and South Lanarkshire), NHS Forth Valley (Clackmannanshire, Stirling and Falkirk) and NHS Lothian (Edinburgh, East, West and Mid-Lothian).
The information outlined below should be used in conjunction with, and where appropriate supersede, the ‘Phase 3: return to sport and physical activity guidance’ to inform the development of sport specific guidance which will be shared with participants, clubs, local authorities/trusts, third sector and other sports facility operators within local areas identified by Scottish Government as requiring additional measures/restrictions to reduce the spread of COVID-19 infection.
It is the responsibility of the relevant facility operator / COVID officer to ensure that full risk assessments, processes and mitigating actions are in place before any sport or leisure activity takes place and to check if the activity is in an area which is subject to additional Scottish Government localised measures and restrictions.
Where a local outbreak has been reported, sports facility operators and deliverers should review their facility/operational risk assessment and consider if additional mitigating actions should be put in place to reduce risk. This may, for example, include; suspending activity, enhancing hygiene and physical distancing measures or introducing additional activity restrictions.
Travel to or from an area with Scottish Government local measures or restrictions in place to undertake sport or physical activity should where possible be avoided.
People living in areas with Scottish Government local measures or restrictions should not participate in outdoor amateur contact sport in any location (unless they are under 18 years of age.
Be aware that the Scottish Government may update or change measures and restrictions at any time, including the local areas subject to them. Therefore COVID officers should regularly check Scottish Government advice and guidance relating to local outbreaks and measures at Coronavirus (COVID-19): local advice and measures.

Outdoor Sport & Leisure Activity – local measures

Facility operators in areas subject to local measures and restrictions may continue to open all outdoor sports areas, courts and pitches if documented risk assessments are undertaken and all appropriate mitigating actions including the guidance herein is put in place to ensure the safety of participants, staff and volunteers. Please also refer to additional guidance produced by sportscotland at: Getting Your Facilities Fit for Sport.
Children and young people under 18 years of age can continue to take part in organised outdoor non-contact and contact sports training, competition or events if all relevant guidance is followed.
Adults (18 years of age or older) can take part in organised outdoor non-contact sports training, competition or events if all relevant guidance is followed.
Adults should not take part in any form of contact sport in areas which are subject to Scottish Government local measures or restrictions.
Where outdoor sports training, competition or events are planned and include multiple bubbles; facility operators, organisers and deliverers should, as part of their risk assessment, consult with relevant local authorities, environmental health, the police or other body responsible for the safety of the public. Agreement must be reached with these bodies before the training, event or competition takes place.
Facility operators, organisers and deliverers should note that the situation around COVID-19 is fluid and activities may need to be cancelled at short notice should there be a change in local or national restrictions. In such circumstance’s plans should be in place to notify participants of event cancellation and to ensure they do not attend the venue or activity.
Outdoor group coaching for organised sport and leisure activities including aerobics and fitness classes can continue to take place with up to 30 people at any one time, including the coach as long as physical distancing is maintained at all times.

Indoor Sport & Leisure Activity – local measures

Indoor sport and leisure facilities can remain open if Scottish Government Coronavirus (COVID-19): Guidance for the opening of indoor and outdoor sport and leisure facilities is fully implemented.
Children under 12 years of age can continue to take part in organised indoor contact and non-contact sports training, activity and competition.
Young adults under 18 years of age can continue to take part in indoor non-contact sports training, activity and competition.
Adults (18 years of age or older) should not take part in any indoor group activity such as exercise classes, any form of contact sport, group competitions or group coaching/training.
Adult group activity for the purposes of this guidance is activity, involving adults, from more than 2 households / 6 members of those households who take part in an activity.
Recreational activity, such as gym use, 1:1 personal training, swimming, ice skating and indoor snowsports activity where physical distancing can be maintained is permitted.
Coaches can take multiple sessions per day, but each session should not include more than one other household if adults are involved (maximum of 6 people in total).
The number of participants allowed to take part in indoor sport or leisure activity must be risk assessed by the sports facility operator following Scottish Government Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance on the opening of indoor and outdoor sport and leisure facilities and sport specific SGB Guidance.
Guidance for coaches, leaders, personal trainers, and instructors (referred to as coaches) is available at Getting your coaches ready for sport.

Hospitality

Additional restrictions are in place for hospitality businesses. Sports facility operators providing catering or bar services should refer to Scottish Government guidance for details of these restrictions. Coronavirus (COVID-19): tourism and hospitality sector guidance.

09/10/2020

Branch Communication Update 14

Here is the 14th edition of the SDS Branch Communication. All previous versions can be found on the SDS website

Thank you to everyone for your support at the Branch Conference, AGM and Awards. A special thank you must go to Disability Sport Fife, Forth Valley Disability Sport and Grampian Disability Sport for presenting at the Branch Conference and sharing your GOGA learnings. Well done to all the SDS Award Winners for 2020, for more information please click here. Please find the Branch Conference Report attached.

Scottish Governing Bodies are continuing to meet with Scottish Government and sportscotland regarding the phased return to sport. We will continue to keep you updated as we move through each phase as some sports outdoor and individuals are returning to action in line with guidelines, although it is appreciated many participants will still be shielding. SDS encourages all participants to engage in physical activity and sport in a safe manner for positive wellbeing.

Phased Return to Sport

1. SDS phase 3 guidance on SDS website which will be updated on an ongoing basis as we move through the different phases SDS Phase 3 Return to Sport paper (updated 10 September)

1.2 Return to Boccia: SDS have produced a Return to Boccia Paper to provide practical guidelines based on the Scottish Government’s guidance to allow boccia in Scotland to be played safely within an indoor facility.

1.3 Covid Officer Training: To help club and community organisations return to sport safely, sportscotland has developed the COVID Officer online training module. This is to support the Scottish Governing Body (SGB) guidance which requires clubs to appoint a named COVID Officer.

Further information on the role can be accessed here: https://sportscotland.org.uk/media/5950/sportscotland-covid-officer.pdf

And the e-learning course can be found here: https://rise.articulate.com/share/LlEWUj-o23H_4gC1AF002jdxdrCucQC0#/

1.4 Return to Sport: Communication

Makaton Users. A downloadable resource has been developed, which illustrates a number of Makaton signs and picture cards that are relevant to COVID-19 and may be useful for clubs who are welcoming back participants who communicate using Makaton: https://mylife.enfield.gov.uk/media/34056/makaton-signs-to-support-coronavirus-conversations-with-video.pdf

1.5 Parents Club Resources: https://www.parentclub.scot/
The Parent Club resource from Scottish Government has been updated to include testing, face coverings and education/learning resources. With plenty of information, advice and tips about the return to school, you may find the following web pages helpful for your organisation and also to share with your network. You can also sign up to the Parent Club newsletter to receive regular emails.

1.6 Facility Opening Information

Please see attached information on Facility Opening Information across Scotland with regards to Local Authorities and Trusts

SDS Branch Resources section

SDS have created a branch resource section on the website. This section has various links to useful information during this time and to the previous branch communications that have been circulated

SDS Branch Resources

2.1 Valuing People

Attached is the Valuing People document which aims to promote good practice when supporting staff and volunteers in branches

2.2 Funding

Funding document

The SDS Branch Steering group have drafted a funding document which has been circulated to all branches. This document pulls together a number of funding sources which branches may like to explore. Please use the following link to access the document: Funding Document

Foundation Scotland

Foundation Scotland Response, Recovery & Resilience Fund: £1k – £5k grants are available to constituted groups & charities to aid them in re-establishing their activities in the ‘new normal’. Applications for projects that adapt and adjust activities and programmes to comply with regulations would be considered where they meet the funder’s priority areas. More information is available at https://www.foundationscotland.org.uk/programmes/community-response,-recovery-resilience-fund/.

Power Up Funding

Family Fund is part of a new project called Power Up. This project runs in Edinburgh and Glasgow to help parents and carers on low incomes develop the confidence and skills to use online tools, websites and Apps to manage money, save on spending and access benefits and grants.

The National Lottery Community Fund

Grants for Improving Lives: Up to £200k is available for projects spanning up to 3 years which fits in with the following priorities:

people are better able to identify ways to take control over their lives and build resilience
people are able to shape the activities and services they use to better meet their needs
people have more access to support and opportunities to improve their lives.

The application process has also been streamlined and simplified, and more information is available at https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/funding/programmes/grants-for-improving-lives.

Hugh Fraser Foundation

Hugh Fraser Foundation: The Foundation supports a wide variety of charities and has many priority areas including ‘the provision of better opportunities for the less privileged’. They prefer to fund smaller, local charities but have provided funding of up to £500k for some organisations. For more information, register with Funding Scotland and visit https://fundingscotland.com/fund/a0Rb0000000Ng6MEAS/hugh-fraser-foundation

The Albert Hunt Trust

The Trust supports UK charities with an income of below £250k per year that promote health and wellbeing. They’re currently not considering applications towards capital projects, but can provide funding towards core and ongoing costs. More details are available at https://www.alberthunttrust.org.uk/philosophy/

Aldi Sport Club Fund

Aldi sport club fund is back open for the west and Glasgow, could be very useful for any clubs who need some help getting back up and running. It has bids for up to £2,500. Application can be completed online and close Monday 2^nd November.

https://www.aldi.co.uk/scottishsportfund

The Roberson Trust

The Robertson Trust have launched their new strategy for the next 10 years. It focusses on tackling poverty and trauma

https://fundingscotland.com/news/2020/09/24/the-robertson-trust-launches-new-strategy?utm_source=alert&utm_medium=email

Online Activities

3.1 Be Active Be Well

Back by popular demand, SDS us delighted to be able to extend the Be Active Be Well online programme between October 2020 and March 2021 there will be a variety of activities on offer every Monday and Friday at 11am such as:

High Intensity Interval Training
Yoga
Stretching
Wheelchair based exercise

Please promote Be Active Be Well through all of your networks – there is no cost to the sessions. https://www.scottishdisabilitysport.com/be-active-be-well-winter-season/

3.2 Virtual Pentathlon

The SDS Virtual Pentathlon 2020 is now in its final week. SDS has been delighted with the level of engagement from our branches and their athletes all around the country. It has been brilliant to see the many videos and photos we have received of athletes participating in each of the events. Once all 5 events from the Virtual Pentathlon have been completed and all final results submitted, trophies and medals will be awarded to the successful teams and individuals. However, in our eyes everyone taking part is a winner!

3.3 Live Life Aberdeen: Live Life Aberdeenshire, Aberdeenshire ClubSport and partners have created a series of videos to help clubs and coaches find support & improve their quality, outreach and understanding. These could be of benefit to any region and are free of charge to access: All videos from the series will remain available on our YouTube channel. Links for these videos are as follows:

Video #1 – Supporting Mental Health: https://youtu.be/xowmfl1dMC8 – How mental health affects everyone and how clubs and groups can help support people towards better mental health.

Video #2 – Inclusive Clubs: https://youtu.be/qXmOgIJtXg4 – How to create a welcoming and inclusive environment at your club for people with impairments, plus stories of clubs and athletes embracing inclusive sport.

Video #3 – Funding: https://youtu.be/GW5ZPf0fEGg – How and where to access it, discussing the funding streams that are available to clubs and what makes a successful application.

Video #4 – Social Media: https://youtu.be/vhZ27rsYjWk – Explore how your club can get the best out of social media, including steps to take to avoid pitfalls.

3.4 Boccia Online Learning

The UK Boccia Workforce Development Group are pleased to announce the launch of a brand new series of online learning. This schedule of CPD initially runs from September to March 2021, and is open to all members of the boccia community to support their learning and development. https://www.scottishdisabilitysport.com/boccia-online-learning/

3.5 GOGA Tayside FREE Online All Ability Activity Programme – Week Beginning Monday 5th October

Our activities are FREE and for all abilities and levels and are fully adaptable.

Not sure if the activities are for you? Feel free to register and watch an activity to see if it is something that you would like to participate in.

Although the activities are over Zoom, if it makes you feel more comfortable you don’t have to switch your camera on to join in.

If you would like to participate in any of the activities please register at least 30 minutes before the activity starts. This will allow us to confirm your registration and email the link and password to you.

Give it a GOGA

Monday 5th October Adult All Ability Yoga 6pm – 7pm
https://us02web.zoom.us/…/tZwpce6urTstHtGtsSmbULxxVd8W8…

Tuesday 6th October Adult All Ability Strength and Balance 1.30pm – 2.15pm
https://us02web.zoom.us/…/tZ0sceCorjMiHd0aKjYB0wfSZLR1g…

Wednesday 7th October Adult All Ability Chair Based Activity 2pm – 2.45pm
https://us02web.zoom.us/…/tZUtcOqrpjkiE92905uxIqa8wIwXP…

Thursday 8th October Adult All Ability Circuits 1.30pm 2.15pm
https://us02web.zoom.us/…/tZ0sde6uqD8jG9B…

Saturday 10th October Child/Family All Ability Yoga 9.30pm – 10am

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUpf–spzIjGNZd5C0IsGMx9y9euq_Zq7v

3.6 #sporthour

The next #sporthour will take place on Monday 5 October at 9pm. The topic is Sport For All Ages

Governance

1. SDS Minimum Operating Requirements The following branches have successfully achieved their MOR reaccreditation: Dumfries & Galloway Disability Sport, South Lanarkshire Disability Sport, Perth & Kinross Disability Sport – Well done!

4.2 SDS Branch Conference/AGM and Awards 2020

SDS Branch Conference, AGM and Awards were held virtually on Sunday 27 September. Thanks to everyone who attended and for your contributions during the day. Congratulations to all of the award winners. Please see SDS social media pages for more information on the award winners.

4.3 Branch Insurance Information

SDS has changed insurance is Arthur J Gallagher Insurance Brokers Ltd from 30 Sept and new policies are underwriten by RSA, Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance plc.

SDS are pleased to confirm that clubs can be insured for £85 or £113 depending on the level of insurance they require. In order for a club to be insured they must complete the club insurance document and adhere to the terms outlined in the email that have been sent to branch contacts. Please send completed club insurance document back to Ailien Pallot (CC’d) and copy both Jen and Mark in.

A couple of things to be aware of:

Clubs must be in membership of their branch in order to access the insurance
This insurance is for clubs who do not have a Scottish Governing Body e.g. Multi Sport Clubs or for whatever reason cannot claim insurance through their SGB. SDS will need to know the reason why you cannot claim insurance through your SGB if this is the case.

1. Branch Steering Group

The next Branch Steering Group meeting is Wednesday 28 October 1pm – 2.30pm online. If you would like to attend this meeting or would like a topic to be discussed please let Jen and Mark know.

4.5 Young Persons’ Sports Panel

Online interviews held on 15 Sept where we appointed 14 young people from 10 branch areas. We held an introduction evening on 21 September with the YP/parents – a really exciting group to be working with.

The Young Persons Sport Panel members are: Thomas Boers (Grampian), Neil Ferguson (Lothian), Hayden Keir (Dumfries and Galloway), Samantha Louise Gough (Lothian), Maria Lyle (Lothian), Murran MacKay (Angus), Rory McKinna (Ayrshire), Laura Pilkington (Lothian), Fiona Rogers (South Lanarkshire), Caitlyn Ross (continuing on, Forth Valley), Callum Sloan (continuing on, Fife), Craig Smith (Glasgow), Cadyn Thomson (Perth and Kinross), Matthew Whynne (East Renfrewshire)

4.6 SCOTTISH HOUSEHOLD SURVEY
https://www.gov.scot/publications/scottish-household-survey-2019-key-findings/
The Scottish Household Survey (SHS) results for 2019 have been published. The SHS provides robust data on a wide range of topics including sport and physical activity. It is the largest social survey of people across Scotland. The 2019 results are based on pre-covid surveys. The 2019 report finds just over half (54%) of the adult population participated in physical activity and sport (excluding walking), in 2019. This has remained broadly constant since 2007, and no change from last year. Participation (including walking), was lower for those living in deprived areas (70% for those living in the most deprived areas compared to 90% for those living in the least deprived). Ill health and disability had a big impact on participation. Those with a long-term limiting condition were less likely to be physically active (54% compared to 88% of those with no condition). All the data is now available on the SHS data explorer app.

Coaching

Each branch is being offered a UKDIT virtual classroom and courses need to be delivered by 26 February. If you would like to run a course please let your branch lead know by 31 October. The course will be 1 hour 30 minutes and will be no cost to the branches.

5.1 Young Start Programme

The Young Start Coaching Apprentices have been selected and will attend a welcome evening on Monday 5 October. The Young Start Coach Apprentice programme provides the first step into coaching and helps athletes to transition and gain qualifications as well as supporting personal development. The list of apprentices will be confirmed with branches in the next week.

5.2 Coaches Seminars

Online Coaches Seminar – Thursday 12 November 2020 at 7:00 – 8:00pm

Classification in Disability Swimming

This workshop, delivered by Paul Wilson, Disability Performance Manager at Scottish Swimming. The workshop will:

· introduce participants to disability swimming classification,

· reference swimming classification systems used at Scottish, UK and International level,

· address swimming classification processes and procedures.

5.3 Supporting the people you coach
Register online here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0ode2srjkrHtdWeRzWHmcch36O1ROD5tuf

Supporting the People You Coach Webinar: UK Coaching has recorded a 50 minute session which provides some food for thought & practical tips for supporting coaches & planning for participants to return to sport and physical activity. The session can be accessed for FREE at https://www.ukcoaching.org/resources/topics/webinars/returning-to-coaching-supporting-the-people-you-co

Branch social media

SDS Member Branch Media: To keep up to date with what else is happening around our member branches please see the links below to their various media channels.

Angus Disability Sport

Ayrshire Sportsability

Borders Disability Sport

Dumfries & Galloway Disability Sport

Dundee City Disability Sport

Disability Sport Fife

Forth Valley Disability Sport

Glasgow Disability Sport

Grampian Disability Sport

Highland Disability Sport

Lothian Disability Sport

Perth & Kinross Disabilty Sport

South Lanarkshire Disability Sport

08/10/2020

RNIB Family Support and Events – September 2020 Update

It is with great pleasure we can now announce we have a new programme of events for children, young people and their families. Due to the ongoing Covid 19 situation we have still suspended our face to face events and our new events will all be delivered online.

We will continue to monitor the current situation and hope to resume face to face events in the future.

These online events will still aim to deliver the core objectives of our Shape and Share programme.

Each event offers:

A chance to meet other families
Activities, games or crafts for younger children
Engagement opportunities for young people
Support, information and discussion for families on a range of topics relating to everyday life at home, education, transitions, social life and leisure, mobility and independence.
Opportunities to have your say, shape and get involved in local and national campaigns.
Information about wider services from RNIB and partner organisations.

All children and young people aged 0-25, their siblings, parents and family members are welcome to attend.

Full details of the events on offer for the autumn term are detailed below.

Our Children, Young People and Family (CYPF) teams can provide information and advice for parents and young people. Contact your local team.

You can book a place on any of the events below by filling out our online booking form.

To be added to our distribution list or for more information about these events please email cypf@rnib.org.uk.

Autumn Events Programme

Each event has a target audience, but this is a guide only, if you have queries about the suitability of an event for your child please contact us. Places are limited so booking early is advised to avoid disappointment.

Shape and Share – Halloween Family Spooktacular
Trick or Treat Family Quiz
Date: Thursday 29 October 2020
Time: 18.00 – 19.30
Who should attend: Children, Young people and their families
Event Details:
Our trick or treat quiz is the first of our ‘Halloween Spooktacular’ activities. Join us for an hour of fiendishly fun questions to get you in the mood for all the Halloween celebrations! The quiz is suitable for all ages, just beware, some questions could be ‘tricky!’

Spooky Sensory Storytime
Date: Friday 30 October 2020
Time: 4.00-4.30pm
Who should attend: Children under 16 and their families
Event Details:
Come and join us for a Halloween themed story read by a special spooky guest!

Frighteningly Fangtastic face painting
Date: Saturday 31 October 2020
Time: 11.00-12.00pm
Who should attend: Children under 16 and their families
Event Details:
Come along and learn how to create a Halloween look following our step by step guide using face paints – the best part is, even if it goes wrong it doesn’t matter, the main point of our frightening face painting session is to have fun! It will be a chance for parents to learn some face painting tips…or if you’re brave enough you could let the children practice on you!

Creepy Creatures
Date: Saturday 31 October 2020
Time: 12.00-13.00pm
Who should attend: Children, young people and their families
Event Details:
It wouldn’t be Halloween without some creepy and crawly animals, if you are brave enough join us for this interactive session as Allan from Wee Critters shows and talks to us about some of his slimy, smelly and hairy friends from the animal world!

Shape and Share – Talking to your child about school life
Date: Wednesday 4 November 2020
Time: 20.00-21.00
Who should attend: Parents
Event Details:
While some children love talking about school, others find this difficult. This can be especially tough when a child is having a challenging time at school. This webinar will look at questions you may have but also an overview of some techniques that may be beneficial for supporting your child.
Due to confidentiality, while in the session we will not be discussing individual circumstances however there will be time before the session to pose any questions and support will be available for further in depth discussions with a member of RNIB’s Children, Young People and Families service if needed.

Shape and Share – Disney Singalong
Date: Saturday 14 November 2020
Time: 11.00 – 13.00
Who should attend: Children and young people with complex needs and their families
Event Details:
Now that we are in ‘a whole new world’, come and ‘be our guest’ and ‘let it go’ at our fun Disney themed virtual music session.
We’ll be joined by our very own Disney prince and princess Mr Joe Kenny and Miss Andrea Begley. Joe is a very talented singer and guitar player and has kept people entertained through his lockdown music sessions on social media. Andrea is the NI Ambassador for RNIB, and her beautiful voice earned her the title of winner of The Voice in 2013.

Shape and Share – Employability
Date: Saturday 14 November 2020
Time: 14.00 – 15.30
Who should attend: Young people aged 14-25 years
Event Details:
In this session we will explore some of the common topics and themes that young people – like you – have asked us about employment. Joined by industry professionals who themselves have a vision impairment, along with a representative from RNIB’s Employment Team. we will explore the importance of volunteering and the benefits it can bring to your skillset, confidence and during the application process; Hints and Tips for the Interview and your chance to declare ‘You’re Hired!’ or, in the words of Lord Sugar… ‘You’re Fired!’ during our virtual interview practice session and much more.

Shape and Share – Messy and Muddy
Date: Sunday 15 November 2020
Time: 10.00 – 11.00
Who should attend: Children under 5 and their families
Event Details:
Come and join us for a fun session focussing on the great outdoors. We will be making some resources to enjoy in the garden and taking part in an autumn treasure hunt. A lovely opportunity to meet other children and talk about what you enjoy about getting messy and muddy.

Shape and Share – Managing your own vision impairment
Date: Wednesday 18 November 2020
Time: 19.30 – 21.00
Who should attend: Children aged 11-16 years
Event Details: You will have the opportunity to meet, chat and listen to other young people’s experiences of living with vision impairment. An ophthalmologist will be online to talk about their role, provide the opportunity to ask questions about your sight and to learn about other sight conditions plus the chance to explore avenues of support.

Shape and Share – Yoga
Session 1 Children with a vision Impairment
Date: Saturday 21 November 2020
Time:10.00 – 11.00
Who should attend: Children and young people with a vision impairment
Session 2 Children with complex needs
Date: Saturday 21 November 2020
Time: 14.00 – 15.00
Who should attend: Children and young people with complex needs
Event Details:
Come and join us for some calm and relaxed special yoga therapy sessions. The sessions are delivered by a qualified yoga instructor and will focus on breathing, posture, massage, sound therapy, mindfulness and relaxation.

Shape and Share – Sporting Fun
Date: Saturday 28 November 2020
Time: 16.00 – 17.00
Who should attend: Children aged 6 -12 years and their families
Event Details: Forget the ‘Quiet Please’… It’s time to make a racquet and put your agility, balance, coordination and speed to the ultimate test with Coach Frankie and RNIB’s Children, Young People and Families Team!
Coach Frankie will lead us through a fun-filled, action-packed session using basic household materials and finish with some information and a question and answer session.

Shape and Share – Meet with Santa
Date: Sunday 6 December 2020
Time: 13.00 – 16.00
Who should attend: Children aged 0-12 and their families
Event Details:
RNIB’s Children, Young People and Families team would like to invite you to come and virtually meet with Santa. He will be taking time out of his busy schedule to read us a story, lead us in a sing-along and meet each family to find out who has been naughty or nice. His elves will also be busy beforehand making up a nice little surprise.
There will be four separate sessions available on Sunday 6th December between 1pm and 4pm. The event is open to the whole family

If you would like to receive a message when our face to face events are back up and running or need any help and support from our team please email us at cypf@rnib.org.uk.

You can also call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or email helpline@rnib.org.uk.

07/10/2020

Boccia UK announce cancellation of UK Championships 2020

Boccia UK have announced the cancellation of this year’s UK Championships because of the continued impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Championships, which see the best Boccia players from across all four home nations compete for the honour of being UK Champion, had originally been due to take place in June but were postponed in the hope that they could be rescheduled safely in December. However the Boccia UK Board met on 6th October and concluded that it would not be possible to stage the Championships given the current situation with the Covid-19 pandemic.

Boccia UK Chair, David Richmond said: “The safety of the Boccia family is paramount. Many of our athletes are still shielding, or training in a highly managed way to minimise risk, and also with many facilities still closed, we are some way off a return to training normally for everyone. Whilst I’m sure that this will be a disappointment for some players, equally it may come as a relief to others. We will continue to plan to hold a UK Championships in 2021 when it is safe to do so.”

05/10/2020

Reid & Hewitt Complete Roland Garros Preparations in Style

Alfie Hewett and Gordon Reid have completed ideal preparations for the wheelchair tennis event at Roland Garros after winning both the men’s singles and doubles titles between them at the French Riviera Open in Biot in the south of France.

Hewett beat world No.2 and reigning Roland Garros champion Gustavo Fernandez 6-3, 7-6(6) in Saturday’s men’s singles final at the ITF 1 Series event.

On Friday, he also partnered Reid to win the men’s doubles, with Lucy Shuker making it a hat-trick of titles for players on the LTA’s Wheelchair Tennis World Class Programme after she won the women’s doubles title partnering Chile’s Macarena Cabrillana.

Hewett made it two wins from three matches on clay against Fernandez as the 22-year-old British No.1 came from 6-4 down in a second set tie-break to win his second singles title of 2020.

The world No.3, who edged past Reid 7-6(4), 7-6(5) in the semi-finals to end Reid’s own bid for a hat-trick of French Riviera Open singles titles, said:

“I didn’t actually expect to come here and win both singles and doubles, so I’m obviously very, very happy right now. I haven’t dropped a set this week, either, so there are a lot of positives I can take going into next week (the French Open).

“I think I should be very, very proud of getting a set 6-3 off Gustavo on clay because I’m the only one who’s done that for a long while. He’s very dominant on clay. To win that set as comfortably as I did was quite a surprise. The difference in the second set was a couple of points and I played the points from 6-4 down in the tie-break smartish”

With the French Open wheelchair tennis event starting on Wednesday, Hewett added:

“We’ve got 24 hours in quarantine when we arrive in Paris, so I think there’ll be a lot of sleep and food to come. I’m just pumped to get there now, but I couldn’t have asked for a better prep.”

Hewett and Reid extended their unbeaten 2020 doubles record to 14 matches and six tournaments after beating Belgian second seeds Joachim Gerard and Jef Vandorpe 6-4, 6-0 in the men’s doubles final in Biot to give Reid extra reason to remember his 29th birthday.

The reigning Australian Open and US Open champions will now attempt to complete a career Grand Slam of doubles titles together, having also previously won three Wimbledon titles.

Reid, already a two-time Roland Garros doubles champion and twice a singles runner-up to Fernandez in Paris, said:

“It’s really good preparation for Roland Garros next week. We’ve just come back from the US Open, where we won the title as well. It was a long break away from events since February, but we’ve come back strongly and we’re confident as a team on court. This has been a really good week for us, we’ve played well and we’re really looking forward to next week.

“We just have to review this week with our coaches, watch some footage of the matches, see what we did well and what we need to improve on and then just try and continue the success.”

While Shuker is not among the four Brits who will be bidding for French Open success in the coming week, the British No.2 put aside the disappointment of a second round singles loss in Biot to earn victory in the women’s doubles as she and Cabrillana made a winning debut as a partnership.

After beating second seeds Katharina Kruger of Germany and Dutchwoman Michaela Spaanstra in a deciding match tie-break in their semi-final, third seeds Shuker and Cabrilllana raced past Japanese fourth seeds Saki Takamuro and Manami Tanaka 6-0, 6-4 in the women’s doubles final. Afer securing her second doubles title of 2020, Shuker said:

“It was a disappointing singles campaign this week but I’m grateful to Maca for the energy, passion and fun on court to bring home my 75th career doubles title. Through all the ups and downs this year, right now it is definitely about being grateful for the opportunities to compete.”

For news and updates from the wheelchair tennis draws and the fortunes of the Brits at the French Open, follow on Twitter @the_LTA and @WChairTennisGB from Monday, 5 October.

To find out more about the LTA’s work with disability tennis, head to www.lta.org.uk/play or email disabilitytennis@lta.org.uk.

Photo credit: Grégory Picout/French Riviera Open

01/10/2020

Historic AGM for SDS

The 57th Annual General Meeting of Scottish Disability Sport (SDS) was held on Sunday 27th September and for the first time in the Association’s history, the event was held wholly online. The COVID-19 restrictions meant that instead of gathering face to face in Stirling as usual, attendees logged in on Zoom and Facebook Live to follow proceedings. Almost 80 members, athletes and players, friends and representatives from partner agencies signed in to follow the AGM business and celebrate the successes of athletes, coaches and volunteers during 2019/2020.

The official welcome was delivered by SDS Chair, Catherine Goodfellow who stepped into this position at last year’s AGM following the tragic and untimely passing of previous Chair, Janice Eaglesham MBE. The election of post holders and directors of the Association resulted in the following individuals being elected to post for a 3 year period:

Chair: Catherine Goodfellow
Finance Director: Paul Queen
Directors: Lori Ure, Colette Martin

CEO Gavin Macleod reported to the audience on progress and key successes during 2029/2020 and on the proposed structure for the new SDS strategic plan that will lead the work of the Association from 2021-2029.

The annual SDS Awards to athletes, coaches and volunteers were then conducted. The main award of the afternoon, the Gordon Brown Memorial trophy for the Athlete’s Athlete of the Year, was awarded to tennis player Dominic Iannotti. SDS was also delighted to announce the inaugural awarding of the Janice Eaglesham Trophy for the club of the year to Fife Athletic Club. This award was introduced in memory of formed SDS Chair Janice Eaglesham MBE and generously donated by Caroline Johnstone and Neil’s Wheels.

The afternoon concluded with the closing remarks being delivered by Paralympian David McCrae, all the way from Maryland, USA. David delivered an inspiring and entertaining talk on his involvement with SDS and his journey through life and sport. It was fitting to have such a motivational friend and advocate of SDS as David to bring the 57th AGM to a conclusion.

Click here for a copy of the SDS Annual Report 2019-2020.

Click here for a copy of the slides from the SDS AGM of 2020.

SDS AWARD WINNERS 2020

Boccia Coach Advance Award: Andrinne Craig, Lewis McConnell, Peter McGuire, Jennifer Barsby
MOR Reaccreditation: Dumfries & Galloway Disability Sport, Perth & Kinross Disability Sport, South Lanarkshire Disability Sport
Russell Hogg Bursary: Samantha Gough, Gemma Lumsdaine, Michael Kear
Special Recognition Award: Dr Elizabeth Ferris
Special Olympics Trophy: Special Olympics Grampian National Winter Games Organising Committee
Dedication to Football Award: Willie Pettigrew
John de Courcy Trophy: Meggan Dawson-Farrell
Glasgow Trophy: Ian Dunn
Elspeth Watson Trophy: Robin Walker
Russell Hogg Trophy: John D’Ambrosio
Fife Trophy: Jamie Bowie
Janice Eaglesham Trophy: Fife Athletic Club
Findlay Calder Trophy: Maria Lyle
Brian Dolan Memorial Trophy: Toni Shaw
Angus Trophy: Gordon Reid MBE
Gordon Brown Memorial Trophy: Dominic Iannotti