Fit for the Future: Edinburgh Leisure’s Impact in Motion

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, commented:

“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.

Key highlights from the 2024-2025 Impact Report include:

• 5.7 million customer visits across venues, including 1.5 million gym and fitness visits – a 9.6% increase year-on-year.
• 30,000 members, up 9% from the previous year.
• 14,562 coaching customers across 11 sports and 15 venues.
• 14,782 individuals supported through Active Communities programmes, up from 12,500.
• £17,000 raised for the Ageing Well project by 79 staff, customers, and volunteers taking part in the Edinburgh Kiltwalk.
• £31.8m income generated over and above funding received from the City of Edinburgh Council.
• Leith Victoria Swim Centre marking 125 years in June 2024.
• Gracemount Leisure Centre named Scottish Centre of the Year at the UK Active Awards in October 2024.

Tackling Inequality and Supporting Vulnerable Communities

Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programmes reached thousands of residents facing barriers to physical activity, including:

• 8,826 people experiencing poverty are supported to be active.
• 604 refugees made 14,500 visits through the Relocated People Access Programme.
• 634 care-experienced children and young people engaged in activities.
• 2,466 low-income residents accessed services through the £10 Get Active Card.

Strategic Health Partnerships and Innovation

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.

Environmental Sustainability

Edinburgh Leisure launched its first Net Zero Strategy (2025–2030), and in the year achieved:

• £207k savings in heat and power across venues
• 24% reduction in CO₂ emissions from its fleet.
• 60% recycling rate through volume-based waste management.

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.

-Ends-