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May 2, 2025

Making Waves: £100,000 Boost for Vital Community Hydrotherapy Pool

We’re thrilled to share some fantastic news that will make a real difference to the lives of disabled residents in the Perth community. The NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation has proudly donated a significant £100,000 towards Capability Scotland’s ambitious £600,000 fundraising drive for a brand-new, purpose-built hydrotherapy pool in Perth. This generous contribution marks a major step forward for their “Our Inclusive Community Project” (OICP) and promises to bring lasting benefits to the broader community.

Capability Scotland is embarking on an exciting project to transform their services in Perth. This vital redevelopment includes relocating their outdated Upper Springlands facilities, near the River Tay, to a modern, state-of-the-art residential and community hub. At the heart of this new development lies a crucial element: a purpose-built hydrotherapy pool. This facility is envisioned as a cornerstone of their commitment to creating a vibrant and inclusive environment where residents can thrive, connect with the community, and achieve their goals.

For individuals living with neurological conditions and other disabilities, access to effective therapies is paramount. Hydrotherapy, which harnesses the unique properties of buoyancy, warmth, and resistance of water, offers therapeutic benefits that can be difficult to achieve through land-based methods alone. It plays a crucial role in improving mobility, balance, overall physical well-being, and even mental health. The existing facilities, however, are no longer fit for purpose, highlighting an urgent need for a modern, accessible hydrotherapy pool to serve the community effectively.

Recognising the profound impact this new facility will have, the NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation has stepped forward with an incredibly generous donation of £100,000. This substantial contribution provides a significant boost to Capability Scotland's fundraising efforts, bringing them closer to their £600,000 target. Shelley McCarthy, Chief Officer of NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "Projects like this are vital for the health and wellbeing of the Perth community," underscoring the Foundation's commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance the lives of local residents.

Ailsa Wallace, Head of Fundraising and Communications at Capability Scotland, shared her heartfelt gratitude: "We are extremely grateful to receive this generous £100,000 donation from the NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation to help fund Our Inclusive Community Project."

The new hydrotherapy pool is set to become a vital resource, offering tailored therapies that have the power to transform lives. For more than 80% of residents and day service users at Capability Scotland's facility, hydrotherapy will offer crucial support in managing significant physical challenges arising from neurological conditions. Beyond physical rehabilitation, participants often experience remarkable improvements in mental health, reduced stress levels, and a newfound sense of empowerment and accomplishment. This comprehensive care will also bring peace of mind to families and carers, knowing their loved ones are receiving such valuable support.

The Future

This project represents a "once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine the care and services we provide and set a new standard for inclusive living," according to Capability Scotland. The hydrotherapy pool is not just about replacing outdated facilities; it's about creating a vibrant hub where residents can connect, thrive, and fully participate in their community. With the generous support of the NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation and the continued efforts of Capability Scotland, this vision for an enhanced and inclusive future for Perth is moving closer to reality.

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