Abilities United was created after recognising a gap in inclusive, meaningful sport opportunities in Aberdeen — particularly for adults with disabilities, mental health conditions, and girls who often feel excluded from traditional sporting pathways.

Through combined experience in healthcare and sports coaching, we saw first-hand how support can drop away once young people with disabilities leave school. The transition into adulthood, especially between 16–18, can be incredibly difficult, leaving many without structure, confidence, or a sense of belonging.

That’s why the adults with disabilities sport sessions are open to ages 16+, welcoming any adult with a disability or mental health condition. The aim is to bridge that transition gap by offering supportive, adaptable sessions that focus on the individual — not expectations or labels.

Alongside this, the girls’ sessions were created after noticing that, if girls wanted to play football, they were often required to be tied to a club. For many, that environment can feel intimidating, exclusive, or pressurised. Abilities United wanted something different — a space where any girl, of any ability, can turn up, enjoy football, build strength, make friends, and feel like she belongs.

No labels. No pressure. Just enjoyment, confidence, and empowerment.

The girls’ strength & conditioning sessions were developed with the same values at heart. For many girls, exercise can become tied to pressure and comparison, often influenced by social media and unrealistic expectations. These sessions aim to shift the focus away from appearance and towards feeling strong, capable, and confident, especially during early teenage years when self-belief can be fragile.

Tony brings over 30 years of healthcare experience in mental health, alongside a strong background in football coaching. Becky brings a sports coaching background combined with experience in healthcare and care management. Together, they understand both the clinical realities and the human experiences behind the people attending their sessions — allowing them to deliver sport in a way that is safe, inclusive, and genuinely supportive.

Abilities United exists because there is an understanding that life can feel overwhelming, isolating, and heavy at times — and that simply showing up can be a huge achievement. Progress doesn’t always have to look big. Sometimes it’s walking through a door you’re nervous about but here there is movement, joy, connection, confidence, and belonging.

And everyone deserves access to that.