Our 12-week referral programme offers a safe, welcoming environment for individuals with long-term health conditions to begin or return to physical activity.
Participants receive tailored support, expert guidance, and access to fitness classes designed to help increase physical activity levels. The programme promotes long-term health management through movement, helping individuals build strength, confidence, and independence.
The 12-week programme includes:
- A personalised activity programme designed to suit your health conditions and fitness ability
- A personalised gym programme to suit your health conditions and fitness ability
- Regular contact with your exercise fitness instructor every 3 weeks throughout the programme to discuss your individual programme and goals
- Discounted access to Active Stirling leisure facilities
- Access to a variety of specialised health fitness classes
How to Join the Programme:
To access the programme, you will need to be referred by your GP, Practice Nurse, or another Health Care professional (who has full access to your medical records). Your referral information will be reviewed to ensure that you are eligible for the programme and that all necessary details and information have been provided.
Once the referral form has been processed, you will be contacted to arrange an initial consultation with one of our exercise referral instructors.
Real-Life Success Story: Jake MacDonald
Stroke Survivor Jake Reaches New Heights with Active Stirling
Jake MacDonald’s journey is a powerful example of how the Active Living For Life programme can support individuals in rebuilding their health, confidence, and independence.
In March 2024, Jake suffered a haemorrhagic stroke that left him with significant weakness on his left side. After three months in hospital, including time in ICU and battling norovirus, Jake began his rehabilitation journey with NHS physio teams at Forth Valley Royal Hospital and the Bellfield Centre’s Wallace Suite.
Through this support network, Jake was referred to Active Stirling’s Active Living For Life programme in July 2024. Working closely with Exercise Referral Instructor Stewart Cairns, Jake began tailored sessions at The PEAK, focusing on strength, balance, and recovery.
The PEAK became my escape — not just from the physical pain, but from the emotional toll of losing my youngest brother to cancer while I was still in hospital. I focused on getting better, so my wife wouldn’t have to carry the burden. The team at Active Stirling helped me rebuild strength in my left side and gave me purpose.
In September 2025, Jake completed a personal challenge to climb the stairs of the Wallace Monument — a symbolic milestone in his recovery. His determination and progress have inspired many, and he’s now fundraising for Forth Valley Giving to support the refurbishment of the Bellfield Centre and further instructor training at Active Stirling.
Jake has made rapid improvements since beginning his rehab journey. He’s been such an inspiration — congratulations again!
Jake’s story highlights the life-changing impact of the Active Living For Life programme and the dedication of our team in supporting recovery through physical activity.
Support Jake’s fundraiser:
Every donation helps support others on similar journeys toward independence and confidence. If you’d like to support Jake’s fundraiser, click below:
