How SRT is Supporting Recovery, Living Well, and Prevention
Shetland’s leisure centres are places where lives are changed, one step at a time. SRT is delivering targeted programmes for people facing real health challenges – whether managing weight, rebuilding strength after illness, or preventing problems before they start.
Healthy Shetland, for example, offers a 12-month journey for people referred by health professionals, combining education, peer support, and physical activity. Participants receive four months’ free membership to help build new habits and confidence. Early results show improvements in weight, mood, and family wellbeing. Other programmes include:
- Falls Prevention (Otago Programme): Strength and balance classes for older adults, helping to reduce the risk of falls, stay active, and build social connections.
- Cardiac Rehabilitation: In partnership with NHS Shetland, SRT supports people recovering from heart conditions with specialist exercise and education, helping them regain confidence and independence.
While SRT’s universal schemes open doors for everyone, these targeted interventions offer personalised support when it matters most. For many, it’s the difference between struggling alone and having a team behind them. Participants talk about feeling more in control, more connected, and more confident.
As NHS Shetland notes “Our partnership with Shetland Recreational Trust has been essential to delivering our services in the community. Working together has increased access for those who need support, strengthened relationships, and created valuable opportunities for staff development. Most importantly, it has enabled us to focus more on prevention and early intervention, helping us reach people earlier and make a real difference in their lives.”
While partnership is key to delivering these life-changing programmes, none of it would be possible without the support of Shetland Charitable Trust. “Ongoing investment from SCT keeps our centres open, enables innovation, and ensures SRT can better respond to local needs.” – Robert Geddes, Chief Executive, SRT.
Find out more about the programmes at Healthy Shetland – Improving Population Health and Wellbeing