Lottery windfall gives lifeline fitness studio a strong start to year

FUNDING: £10,000 boost for Perth gym that helps people with mental health issues

A Perth gym group that offers personal training for people with mental health issues is celebrating a near-£10,000 windfall.

Scotland All-Strong, a not-for-profit fitness studio set up by husband-andwife team Andy and Jessica Douglas, has secured National Lottery Community Fund cash for its innovative Fitness to Feel Better programme.

The social enterprise project, based on Scott Street, uses keep fit sessions to support people with anxiety, depression and chronic stress, among other things.

The cheque for £9,328 was presented to the group by local SNP MSP John Swinney.

“I was delighted to hear that Scotland All-Strong have received such a sizeable award,” he said.

“Andy and Jess are passionate about improving the wellbeing of those across Perthshire. They have correctly recognised that there is a clear link between physical exercise and improved mental health, and I am sure that they will put this funding to good use.

“I am pleased that their hard work is being rewarded and I look forward to witnessing the transformative impact that their programme will have on the lives of service users.”

Director and instructor Mr Douglas said the money would allow Scotland All-Strong to deliver subsidised places for the Fitness to Feel Better referrals programme.

He said: “By bringing together multiple tools of recovery, selfmanagement and prevention, including physical activity, relaxation techniques and peer support, Scotland All-Strong’s innovative approach combined with their unique set-up will help many in the local community get started in exercise and wellness.

“This will ultimately empower them with the ability and knowledge to take more control of their own mental and physical health and overall wellbeing in the longer term.”

Neil Ritch, director at the National Lottery Community Fund Scotland, added: “The start of the year is traditionally a time when people are most likely to set themselves healthrelated goals. Thanks to National Lottery players, All-Strong Scotland will be able to help many people in Perth to achieve these goals, by providing them with the tools to manage their mental health and wellbeing.

“As well as introducing people to physical exercise, the project is a great way of bringing people together to sustain activity through peer support.”

“Thanks to National Lottery players, All-Strong Scotland will be able to help many people in Perth to achieve their goals, by providing them with the tools to manage their mental health and wellbeing. NEIL RITCH

Picture: Kenny Smith. Deputy First Minister John Swinney and Neil Ritch, director at the National Lottery Community Fund Scotland, presented the cheque to owners Andy Douglas and his wife Jessica.