Paralympic legacy at risk of passing disabled children by

2 mins read

Thursday 5 September 2024

Two weeks of Paralympic action comes to an end this weekend, with Team GB currently second in the medal table with a whopping total of 75.

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The Paralympics is an important event in raising awareness of a range of disabilities. Above all, it inspires disabled children up and down the country to take part in sport.

But as part of the Disabled Children’s Partnership (DCP), we’re warning that disabled children are missing out on physical activity by a lack of facilities, resource and staff.

DCP research found that just a quarter of disabled children have the support required to enjoy hobbies outside of school. In many cases this leaves them “incredibly isolated”.

Contact CEO and Chair of the DCP Anna Bird told the i newspaper:

“Without the proper facilities, resources and skilled staff to participate in races or team games, that magic moment of inspiration will be lost, leaving children unable to enjoy the social, mental and physical benefits that sport brings.

“Thirty minutes of activity a day is just not enough. We need a culture change where physical exercise is seen as an essential part of a disabled child’s education and life, rather than an optional extra.”

We want to see activities like wheelchair basketball and boccia – a Paralympic ball sport – in mainstream schools and community centres.