Visitors to the ISPS HANDA Women’s Scottish Open at Dundonald Links were encouraged to start conversations about diabetes in a fun, engaging and memorable way, thanks to Diabetes Scotland working in partnership with Movement for Health, who were based in the event’s Wellness Tent throughout the tournament.
The partnership brought together golf, wellbeing and diabetes awareness, creating an interactive space where attendees could learn more about diabetes while taking part in a range of activities designed to challenge misconceptions and reduce stigma.
One of the most popular attractions was "Drive Out Stigma", where participants were invited to smash special exploding golf balls that burst into clouds of blue cornflour on impact. The dramatic blue explosions symbolised breaking down barriers and challenging the stigma that many people living with diabetes can face every day. The activity created plenty of smiles, excitement and shareable moments, while opening the door to important conversations about diabetes awareness and understanding.
Visitors also had the opportunity to take part in a golf-themed photo experience, featuring Diabetes UK blue nail polish and branded golf gloves. To make it quick, accessible and easy for everyone to join in, participants were encouraged to paint just one thumbnail blue. The single blue thumbnail created a striking visual statement, sparking curiosity and encouraging conversations as people moved around the event.
The initiative was open to both players and members of the public, with many proudly displaying their blue thumbnail as a visible sign of support for people living with and affected by diabetes. Accompanied by branded golf gloves for photographs, the activity proved to be an effective way of raising awareness while creating memorable and engaging content.
Attendees also had access to a range of Diabetes Scotland merchandise and information resources, including badges, socks, stickers, pens and diabetes information leaflets. These items served as conversation starters and provided practical take-away reminders of the importance of understanding, supporting and talking about diabetes.
Adding further support to the campaign was Hannah McCook, professional golfer and Golf Ambassador at Gleneagles, who joined the team in helping to drive out stigma and raise awareness during the event. Hannah took part in the exploding golf ball challenge, quite literally helping to "turn the air blue", and proudly painted her thumbnail blue in solidarity with the diabetes community.
Her involvement helped shine a spotlight on the campaign and demonstrated how simple actions can help start meaningful conversations about diabetes and the impact stigma can have on those living with the condition.
Through fun, interactive activities and positive engagement, Diabetes Scotland successfully connected with hundreds of attendees throughout the week, reinforcing the message that greater understanding and awareness can help create a more supportive environment for everyone affected by diabetes.
As the blue clouds settled over Dundonald Links, one message remained clear: together, we can all play a part in striking out diabetes stigma.
