Power of Sport report shows barriers to sport and physical activity

The Disability Policy Centre and Soda, supported by Nimbus Disability, have released a new collaborative piece of research: ‘The Power of Sport: A Lifetime of Opportunity’.

A report by The Disability Policy Centre and Soda has highlighted major barriers to sport and physical activity for disabled people. The report found just over half of disabled people surveyed were prevented from watching sport due to a lack of accessibility in their venue of choice.

Writing in her foreword, Chloe Schendel-Wilson, Co-Founder, The Disability Policy Centre said:

"Sport and physical activity have the power to transform people’s lives and communities, but too often disabled people, and people with long-term health conditions, are held back from reaching their full potential. ‘The Power of Sport: A Lifetime of Opportunity’ highlights the importance of the introduction, improvement and preservation of accessibility and inclusion at every level of engagement.

"The paper journeys through the narrative of a lifetime of sporting engagement, from ignition of interest to participation, spectatorship, volunteering and progression."

Some key findings published include:

• 8% of disabled people surveyed were prevented from watching sport due to a lack of accessibility in their venue of choice.
• 1% of respondents said that there were a lack of suitable options to play sport, or take part in physical activity, near where they lived.
• 4% said that the lack of Social Care support was what prevented them from taking part in the activity they wish.
• 6% said that Accessible Transport was a major barrier for them. 

Find out more and read the report here