Fantastic Start to the Year for Disability and Inclusion at ANGUSalive
ANGUSalive has kicked off the year with a strong and positive start for Disability and Inclusion, securing significant investment to widen access, improve wellbeing and create more inclusive opportunities for people and families across Angus.
Led by Laura Smith, Disability & Inclusion Lead, ANGUSalive has successfully secured two key funding awards, supporting greater inclusion within Angus through cycling projects designed to remove barriers, encourage participation and promote family wellbeing.
Inclusive Bikes Project
A major highlight is the Inclusive Bikes Project, which has secured £60,000 of funding (Tactran & ANGUSalive’s Investment Fund). The investment will support the expansion of adaptive cycling opportunities across Angus with three key locations identified:
- Monikie Country Park
- Forfar Loch
- Montrose Sports Centre
The project will enable people with disabilities and additional support needs to experience the physical and mental health benefits of cycling in safe, welcoming and supportive environments. The new bikes and equipment will help ensure activities are tailored to individual needs, promoting confidence, independence and inclusion.
Laura Smith, Disability & Inclusion Lead said of the project: “The Inclusive Bikes Project is a significant step forward in ensuring that everyone across Angus has the opportunity to be active, regardless of ability or need. This investment allows us to remove barriers that have traditionally limited participation and instead create welcoming, accessible environments where people can build confidence, independence and a sense of belonging. It’s about giving people real choice and opportunity to take part in a way that works for them.”
Pedal Together – Angus, Family Cycling Programme
Further strengthening this positive start to 2026 is a £10,000 award from the Family Wellbeing Fund, supporting a year-long cycle programme for families. This funding will allow ANGUSalive to deliver free cycling sessions, helping families spend quality time together while being active outdoors.
Laura continued: “The Pedal Together – Angus programme is all about bringing families closer through shared, positive experiences. By creating inclusive cycling opportunities, we’re not only supporting physical activity but also helping families spend meaningful time together, build confidence and enjoy the outdoors in a safe and supportive way. For many, this will be their first opportunity to cycle as a family, and that’s incredibly powerful.”
Together, these projects reflect ANGUSalive’s continued commitment to inclusion, wellbeing and removing barriers to participation, setting a strong foundation for the year ahead.
The official launch of the projects is planned for May 2026, with further details on a launch event to be announced soon.