Abilities United was created after recognising a gap in accessible, meaningful opportunities for people to take part in sport and gentle exercise across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, particularly for adults with disabilities, those living with long-term health conditions, mental health challenges, and older adults who may struggle to access traditional activities.

 

Through our combined backgrounds in healthcare, care management and sports coaching, we saw first-hand how many people are left without opportunities to stay active, connected and engaged. For many, barriers such as mobility, confidence, transport, or a lack of suitable provision can lead to isolation and declining physical and mental wellbeing.

 

Our adult sessions are open to anyone aged 16+ with a disability or mental health condition, providing a welcoming, supportive environment where every activity can be adapted to suit the individual. Rather than focusing on limitations, we focus on what people can do, encouraging confidence, independence, social connection and enjoyment through inclusive sport and gentle exercise.

 

We also recognise that not everyone can travel to community sessions, which is why our Gentle Exercise Home Visits have become such an important part of what we do. Many of the people we support are housebound, living with progressive neurological conditions, recovering from illness or injury, or simply lack the confidence to attend group activities. By bringing movement into their own homes, we remove barriers and create opportunities for people to remain active, maintain their independence, improve their mobility and strength, and continue doing the everyday things that matter most to them. For many, these visits provide not only physical benefits but also meaningful social interaction, routine and something positive to look forward to each week.

 

Alongside our community and home-based services, we deliver outreach sessions within schools, care homes, and community organisations. We believe opportunities should not be limited by location, so we take our inclusive approach directly to those who may otherwise miss out. Whether delivering chair-based Zumba, gentle movement, or adapted sports sessions, our aim is to create engaging experiences that promote physical activity, improve wellbeing and ensure that everyone, regardless of age or ability, has the opportunity to participate.

 

Tony brings over 30 years of experience in healthcare, specialising in mental health, alongside an extensive background in girls football coaching. Becky combines a degree in Sports Coaching with experience in healthcare management. Together, they understand both the clinical realities and the personal experiences of the individuals they support. While Abilities United is not a healthcare provider and does not deliver therapeutic or clinical interventions, this combined knowledge enables sessions to be delivered safely, inclusively and with genuine understanding of each person’s individual needs.

 

Abilities United exists because we understand that life can sometimes feel overwhelming, isolating and uncertain, and that simply taking the first step through the door, or opening it to welcome someone into your home, can be an incredible achievement. Progress doesn’t always have to be measured in medals or milestones. Sometimes it’s standing for a little longer, smiling a little more, making a new friend, regaining confidence, or simply feeling part of something again.

 

At the heart of everything we do is a simple belief: everyone deserves the opportunity to move, play and belong❤️