Disability Sports Coach Launch their Inclusive Summer of Sport 2021

Charity Disability Sports Coach are this month launching their Inclusive Summer of Sport in celebration of the 2020/21 Paralympic Games and the return of in-person grassroots sport. This pan-disability sports festival aims to bring disabled people together to enjoy sport after 18 months of COVID-19 restrictions, whilst highlighting the power of community in making physical activity inclusive.

Throughout August, the London-based charity is running a series of special Paralympic-themed sports days at their Community Clubs across London, along with additional events in collaborations with partners in the capital.

They are also running a Virtual Inclusive Sport Festival on Tuesday 24th and Wednesday 25th August, which will consist of online sports sessions like dance and boxing, creative activities such as baking, influencer sessions, a panel and celebratory opening and closing ceremonies.

The charity’s community research has found that over 50% of members felt COVID-19 restrictions had caused them to be less active. However, around 75% also said that being part of their local Disability Sports Coach Community Club made them feel less isolated.

CEO Peter Ackred says: “Our Inclusive Summer of Sport is all about celebrating the grassroots disability sport community. 18 months of restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact upon disabled people and their activity levels. With community facilities having closed for extensive periods, some of the most vulnerable members of society were unable to access the sports sessions that many relied on to stay healthy and socially connected.

“Throughout this period, it has become evident that the one thing that kept the members of our community coming back to be active was the prospect of seeing their friends. It is this sense of community and connectivity that creates meaningful long-term activity habits, whilst boosting mental wellbeing and reducing loneliness that can otherwise be felt among 40% of disabled people.

“When it comes to creating sustainable activity habits that prevent this isolation, community is key for disabled people. Our 2021 Summer Festival will showcase our community at its best, demonstrating the importance of continuing to invest in inclusive sport at the grassroots level.”