Keith Brown MSP, Member of the Scottish Parliament for the Clackmannanshire & Dunblane constituency, has highlighted the important message behind Scottish Women and Girls in Sport Week 2023 and is encouraging all women and girls to get involved in local events.

The Scottish Government, alongside Scottish Women in Sport and Active Scotland, designed this initiative to highlight the importance of sport in achieving gender equality and improving health and wellbeing, to increase female participation and to celebrate the achievements of women and girls in all sports across all levels.

The ultimate goal is to eradicate gender inequality in sport and promote better discussion around women’s health, and this year’s theme is celebrating inclusion of those with all levels of ability.

Speaking today, Keith said:

“The seventh annual Scottish Women and Girls in Sport Week is a fantastic opportunity to encourage more women and girls to get active and to celebrate the many trailblazing role models in women’s sport.

“As the brilliant video tweeted by Alloa Academy’s PE Department shows, physical activity can be a lot of fun – and as well as being incredibly beneficial for mental health and physical well-being, can be an incredible force for good in communities like those in my constituency, leading to empowerment and a sense of belonging which are too often in short supply for many girls.

“Many women and girls already make a tremendous contribution to sports at all levels, on and off the pitch, however there remains a huge disparity between male and female participation.

“That is why the SNP Scottish Government has made it a long-standing priority to increase women and girls’ participation in sport and improve awareness of its benefits, as is the commitment to double investment in sport and active living to £100 million by the end of this Parliament.

“There are many events and activities going on as part of Women and Girls in Sport Week and those taking part can share and celebrate their achievements on social media by using #SheCanSheWill. I encourage all those who can to get involved, not only this week but in the weeks, months and years ahead.”