The SNP MSP for Renfrewshire North and West has marked the beginning of Scottish Women and Girls in Sport Week 2023 by 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.

Commenting, SNP MSP for Renfrewshire North and West, Natalie Don, said:

“Scotland’s seventh annual 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.

“Being active offers many benefits to women, including better mental health and physical well-being. It can also be an incredible force for good in communities like Renfrewshire, leading to empowerment and a sense of belonging which are too often in short supply for many girls.

“Whilst gender equality within sports has improved at all levels, both on and off the pitch, there remains a huge disparity between male and female participation. That is why the SNP Scottish Government is spearheading the fight for equal opportunities and inclusion for all.

“It is a long-standing priority of the SNP Scottish Government 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.

“As part of this week, women and girls can share and celebrate their achievements on social media by using #SheCanSheWill. I encourage all those who can to get involved!”