The Cowdenbeath locality Active Fifers group is working to improve health and wellbeing through inclusive physical activity. One of its most popular initiatives is Walking Football, a weekly session held at Bowhill Leisure Centre and led by Cowden in the Community, with support from Active Communities, Fife Sports & Leisure Trust, and the Health & Social Care Partnership.

The session attracts around 20–25 participants each week, mostly men over 50, and is open to anyone regardless of age or ability. It combines gentle physical activity with social connection. Each session ends with a shared lunch, reinforcing the importance of community and conversation alongside exercise.

Walking Football is particularly effective for those referred by NHS Fife, offering a manageable and enjoyable way to become more active. It appeals to people who were previously involved in football and want to stay engaged in a familiar sport, adapted to suit their current health needs.

The initiative supports several ambitions from the Plan for Fife, including reducing preventable ill health, tackling poverty through inclusive access, and ensuring public services act “one step sooner.” It also reflects strong collaboration across local partners, including Active Schools, Outdoor Education, Community Use Schools, and NHS Fife.

A personal story from participant Bill Cameron highlights the impact:

“I started playing seven years ago after retiring due to a spinal condition. Walking Football was the perfect answer. It helps with my fitness and movement, and I enjoy the banter and after-game chat. My advice to anyone thinking about it is, just come along, even if it’s just to watch.”

With over 200 weekly attendances across Fife, the Active Fifers group is now looking to grow the programme further, particularly by increasing referrals from GPs and NHS staff. Long-term plans include measuring the social return on investment to demonstrate the wider value of Walking Football to health services and the community.