The funding will support a comprehensive programme of free sport and physical activity opportunities for children and young people, helping to remove barriers and make it easier for more people to get involved.
Chief Executive of Sportscotland, Forbes Dunlop, said:
“At Sportscotland, we believe that sport has the power to strengthen communities and change lives. The 2026 Summer of Sport campaign, made possible by Scottish Government investment, is a great example of what can be achieved when partners come together with a shared ambition to make sport more inclusive and accessible. We’re proud to play our part in helping more young people enjoy the benefits of being active as we celebrate a fantastic summer of sport.”
The £18 million initiative, funded by the Scottish Government and facilitated by Sportscotland, will offer young people aged three to 26 the opportunity to get active and try something new.
In Dumfries and Galloway, a full programme of free activity will run throughout the summer, ensuring young people can take part regardless of cost or location. The investment is also strengthening local delivery, with funding supporting community clubs and organisations, alongside leadership pathways such as sports academies to help young people build confidence and skills.
Barriers to participation are being actively addressed through free access to leisure facilities, targeted support for disability sport, and additional investment in secondary schools to help overcome transport challenges. New temporary roles within Active Schools will further enhance delivery, including a dedicated focus on engaging care experienced young people, ensuring the programme reaches those who may benefit most.
The 2026 Summer of Sport is inspired by the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. These global events will help inspire young people locally to take part, get active and begin their own journey in sport and physical activity.
Dumfries and Galloway Active Schools and Community Sport is working closely with partners, including leisure facilities, schools and local clubs, to ensure activities are accessible and inclusive, helping young people build confidence, stay active and connect with others.
Councillor Tracey Little, Chair of the Education, Skills and Community Wellbeing Committee, said:
“This is a fantastic opportunity for children and young people to try something new, get active, and experience the joy of physical activity, whether it’s through sport, outdoor events, or community-based activities.”
Councillor George Jamieson, Vice-Chair of the Education, Skills and Community Wellbeing Committee, added:
“We’re proud to support the 2026 Summer of Sport and bring exciting, accessible activities to young people in Dumfries and Galloway. Our goal is to make these opportunities available to everyone, regardless of background.”
Through this investment, Dumfries and Galloway is delivering one of its most ambitious summer activity programmes to date, helping more young people than ever before take part in sport and physical activity in their communities.
To find out more about the 2026 Summer of Sport, visit: Summer of sport - sportscotland the national agency for sport in Scotland