Walking isn’t only good for our physical, social and mental health. It’s also good for our communities, the environment and the economy.
We support and inspire people in Scotland to walk and wheel more.
Walk. Connect. Change your world.
The top destination for walking tips, tools and inspiration.
Between 2022 and 2026, our Ian Findlay Path Fund (IFPF) helped 62 projects across 17 council areas.
It has enabled community groups, charities and local partners to improve paths linking homes with schools, workplaces, public transport and local green spaces, strengthening connections within local communities. Several of the path projects have included lighting improvements that empower more women and girls to use the community paths all year round.
Margaret, a resident local to a project that provided a vital link to local services in Dunfermline, said,
“We know the project is already changing lives for those in the community who are socially isolated or find local journeys difficult. The route has become the preferred choice for families commuting to school, promoting healthier, car-free travel.”
As the fund comes to an end, it leaves lasting impact. Projects have upgraded more than 69 kilometres of path surfaces, created over 16 kilometres of new link paths and improved almost 29 kilometres of routes, connecting neighbourhoods with local services and green spaces.
Projects have also removed 28 accessibility barriers, installed 92 seats along community paths and improved lighting, drainage and signage, helping make routes safer and easier to use throughout the year.
Donald, a resident local to a project that upgraded a long-neglected path in the Isle of Skye, said, “Many more people in the community can now use the path. People with walking difficulties who have not been able to set foot on the path for many years due to its deterioration, are now able to stroll in safety.”
“The Ian Findlay Path Fund is leaving a lasting legacy that communities across Scotland will benefit from for years to come. These practical improvements make a real difference to people’s daily lives. When paths are safe, well-maintained and easy to use, people walk and wheel more. That benefits their health and their communities. It also helps the environment, as more people choosing to walk and wheel reduces the number of car journeys and carbon emissions.” Kevin Lafferty, Chief Executive Officer
Kevin Lafferty, Chief Executive Officer
The fund was established in memory of Ian Findlay CBE, our former Chief Executive Officer. Ian’s work championed the importance of accessible paths and everyday walking and wheeling in building healthier, more connected communities across Scotland. The Ian Findlay Path Fund was the perfect way for all of us at Walking Scotland to pay tribute to Ian.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop said, “The Ian Findlay Path Fund has been an important part of our commitment to supporting communities across Scotland to create safe, accessible and attractive places to walk, wheel and enjoy their local environments. Since its inception, this fund has empowered local groups, who understand the needs and character of their own areas, to lead improvements that make every day active travel easier and more appealing.
“As the fund comes to a close this month, I want to pay tribute to the volunteers, community organisations and partners who have turned small scale, grassroots ideas into meaningful local change. Their work embodies the spirit of community led development and complements our wider national ambition to make walking, wheeling and cycling the natural choice for shorter journeys.
“While this chapter concludes this year, the legacy of the Ian Findlay Path Fund will continue in the strengthened connections, safer routes and more vibrant places it has helped deliver across Scotland.
Published: 10 April 2026
