Since its launch we are pleased to see evidence of positive trends. Membership has grown 28% since 2021 to its highest ever level, surpassing 4,000 individual members for the first time. 

Of particular note is the 48% increase in the number of female SCA members since 2021. In terms of younger paddlers, there has been a 59% increase in the number of Junior (Under 18) members in the same time frame. 

Our Equality Groups are stronger than ever, with the addition of 11 new members across the seven equality groups in the past year. We’ve also overseen the appointment of 16 SCA Young Ambassadors plus 3 #ShePaddles Ambassadors. 

We are particularly proud of the achievement of the Advanced Level of the Equality Standard for Sport, awarded in December 2022. This is the highest level awarded by the Sports Council Equality Group and granted following an extensive reflective process and detailed report, plus an in-depth assessment through two panel presentations and in-the-field assessment.

Event-wise, the past year has seen the SCA attend an increased number of parasport festivals, giving nearly 300 people living with a disability the opportunity to try paddlesport in early 2023. The SCA also launched a Paracanoe Pathway with broad plans to develop this underway. 

Our clubs are also doing some fantastic work; in a recent survey 70% of club members said that they were satisfied or very satisfied with the culture in the club, describing them as being friendly, welcoming, supportive, and inclusive. 

The 2023 Scottish Women’s Paddle Symposium was a huge success and the second & third editions of Paddling with Pride took place in August 2022 & 2023.

There is much work still to be done, but we are proud of and grateful for the achievements already seen in the work across the paddlesport sector to make paddlesport more accessible.

Originally published in July 2023's edition of 'Scottish Paddler'.