Disability Sports Coach

Disability Sports Coach is a UK-based charitable organization dedicated to empowering disabled people through sport to live healthier, happier lives. Registered under charity number 1150294, the organization focuses on increasing accessibility and inclusion in sports activities for disabled individuals.

Mission and Activities

Disability Sports Coach addresses the significant inequalities faced by disabled people in the UK, where around 14 million disabled individuals experience higher risks of inactivity, isolation, and related health issues compared to non-disabled people. The charity’s mission is to use the transformative power of sport to improve physical health, promote social integration, and combat feelings of isolation among disabled communities.

The organization achieves this through several key programs:

• Community Clubs: Operating inclusive pan-disability community sports clubs across London, the charity provides weekly opportunities for disabled people and their families to participate in adapted sports activities, build friendships, and reduce social isolation. These clubs have been running since 2012, notably the Southwark Community Club, and have received recognition such as Best Charity at the 2019 Southwark Business Excellence Awards.

• Inclusive Coaching and Training: Disability Sports Coach delivers specialized inclusive coaching sessions in schools, colleges, and community settings, enabling disabled children and young people to join physical education and sport activities alongside their peers. The charity also offers training courses for teachers, coaches, and volunteers to equip them with the skills needed to confidently deliver adapted sports programs.

• Online Activity Sessions: To reach more people, especially those unable to attend in person, the charity hosts free online exercise sessions that help disabled individuals stay active and connected from home.

• Volunteer and Workforce Development: The organization actively trains disabled people as volunteers and supports their progression into coaching roles. Impressively, 45% of the charity’s workforce are disabled. This inclusive approach was honored with the Workforce Award at the 2019 London Sport Awards.

Impact and Reach

Since its formation in 2013, Disability Sports Coach has:

• Delivered sport and physical activity to over 21,000 disabled people and their families.
• Trained over 5,000 individuals through inclusive workshops.
• Supported more than 300 organizations to make their sports sessions more inclusive.

Despite significant achievements, the charity acknowledges the vast unmet needs of the disabled population in the UK and continues to expand its reach and programs.

Recognition and Awards

• Best Charity, Southwark Business Excellence Awards, 2019
• Workforce Award, London Sport Awards, 2019

Governance and Safeguarding

Disability Sports Coach complies with statutory safeguarding responsibilities and government guidance to protect young people and at-risk adults involved in their programs. The organization adheres to best practices recognized in the UK Sport and Leisure sector.[1][2][5]

Disability Sports Coach remains committed to breaking down barriers to sport participation for disabled individuals and fostering an inclusive sporting community that benefits health, well-being, and social connection across the UK.

[1] https://disabilitysportscoach.org.uk/what-we-do/sport-coaching/ [2] https://disabilitysportscoach.org.uk [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?subid=0&regid=1150294 [4] https://www.rememberacharity.org.uk/find-a-charity/disability-sports-coach/ [5] https://www.teamlondonbridge.co.uk/disability-sports-coach