West Lothian residents are reaping the benefits of participating in leisure programmes offered by Xcite, a Community Leisure Trust that is making a positive impact on the community’s health and well-being. West Lothian Leisure (Xcite), a registered Scottish charity, has demonstrated its commitment to enhancing lives by delivering an impressive £14.4 million in social value through its services and programmes during the 2023/2024 period. This significant achievement underscores the organisation’s dedication to fostering healthier, happier, and longer lives for individuals in West Lothian.
Social value encompasses the broader benefits that activities and services bring to individuals and communities, including improvements in physical and mental health, personal development, social well-being, and connectivity. The recently published 2023/2024 annual review of West Lothian Leisure highlights the tangible impact of their initiatives, such as significant reductions in healthcare costs. These savings include £105,444 from fewer GP visits, £154,768 in reduced psychotherapy costs, £822,221 in Type 2 Diabetes care savings, £809,228 in dementia care savings, £460,269 prevented in hip fractures, and £235,956 in coronary heart disease and stroke care.
The data presented in the annual review showcases a record-breaking 2.6 million visits to West Lothian Leisure venues and services, encompassing a wide range of activities from health and exercise referrals to gym classes, swimming sessions, coaching sessions, and more. Notable highlights include a 25% increase in concessionary visits through the Access Xcite program, which offers discounted access to low-income families and individuals receiving certain benefits in collaboration with West Lothian Council.
Innovative initiatives like the Fitness Factory have made a positive impact on individuals like 12-year-old Fleur Bunskoek, who improved her core strength and balance through a personalized programme, enabling her to excel in her alpine ski races. Likewise, members like Lizzie Woollams, a participant in the Active 65+ program, have found renewed strength and joy through regular classes at Xcite, managing conditions like osteoarthritis effectively.
West Lothian Leisure’s collaborations with organisations such as Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland, Parkinson’s UK, and Scottish Gymnastics have extended the reach of their support to those in need, including innovative dementia support programs like Love to Move. CEO Ben Lamb expressed pride in the organisation’s social value achievements, emphasizing the transformative impact on individuals’ lives and the community at large.
Looking ahead, West Lothian Leisure aims to continue expanding participation opportunities and promoting physical activity and well-being for all residents in the region. Their dedication to creating a healthier, happier, and longer life for the community underscores their ongoing commitment to improving lives through active engagement and support. For more information on West Lothian Leisure’s initiatives, visit their website at www.westlothianleisure.com.