Disability Within Sport

[Virtual Presenter] Good morning everyone. We are here today to discuss how people with disabilities may struggle within the sporting industry and the positive effects that participating in sport can have on physical and mental health. Let's begin by taking a look at disability within sport..

[Audio] Disability within sport has become an increasingly important focus. Despite efforts to ensure that those with disabilities have the same rights as those without inequality persists. People with disabilities face various physical and social barriers in the sporting industry but are still managing to break through these challenges. Dedication and determination can lead to remarkable results. In this discussion I will be looking at the struggles that those with disabilities have in the sporting industry and possible ways to tackle them. We will investigate how the industry can be more supportive for people with disabilities from creating an inclusive atmosphere to providing the necessary resources. Finally I will discuss how embracing diversity and celebrating different abilities can lead to greater success and stronger connections with people of all backgrounds..

[Audio] Sports are gaining greater importance for all individuals not just those with disabilities. Studies have revealed that involvement in sports can aid in reducing levels of stress and enhance emotional and physical health. The endorphins released through physical activity act as natural stimulants and help maintain low levels of stress and depression. For people with impairments sport offers chances to acquire social aptitudes gain autonomy and become more self-determining. A sympathetic and hospitable atmosphere permits effective communication and collaboration while stressing regard for each other as well as cooperation. Sport can aid in forming links between individuals and communities and has the potential to form a more inclusionary and equitable society..

[Audio] Sports offer a great way for people with disabilities to make social connections increase their self-esteem and self-confidence and work to change the community's perception of disability. Through sport they can show their abilities and prove they are just as capable as anyone else. Providing opportunities for those with disabilities to take part in sport helps to reduce discrimination inequality and unfair treatment in the community. Sport also provides people with disabilities the chance to join a team and form meaningful social relationships and connections. With sport they are able to focus on their skills and abilities rather than their disability and demonstrate that they are just as capable as anyone else. By providing more opportunities for those with disabilities to participate in sport we can work to reduce discrimination inequality and unfair treatment in the community..

[Audio] The statistic is sobering and troubling. There is a clear discrepancy in participation in sport between people with and without disabilities. People with disabilities are almost twice as likely to be inactive than their peers without disabilities and the likelihood further increases with more impairments. Additionally national statistics indicate that people with disabilities are less involved in organized sport than those without. This discrepancy in participation reinforces the necessity for society to take steps to make sport more accessible and inclusive to all..

[Audio] Individuals with disabilities often face difficulties accessing sport. Psychological factors such as the lack of confidence or fear of not succeeding can prevent them from doing so. Physical barriers like limited access to facilities not equipped to accommodate wheelchairs can also be an issue. Financial constraints including the cost of the session or lack of a steady income can also make it hard to get involved. These obstructions can significantly impede a person's chance to partake in sports..

[Audio] Sports have the potential to play an important role in creating a more inclusive society particularly for those with disabilities. To take full advantage of this potential we must first identify the obstacles that can prevent people with disabilities from participating in sport. The Equality Act 2010 Disability Discrimination Act has set the framework for people with disabilities to be able to access sports facilities and lower the costs of attending sports sessions. In addition psychological barriers that can stop disabled people from taking part in sports can be eliminated by adopting low-impact exercises with minimalistic movements meaning that everyone is able to participate without facing the risk of being excluded. With these measures in place there is no longer any reason why disability should be seen as a hindrance in the world of sport..

[Audio] Sports is a language that everyone can understand. Despite this fact people with disabilities are often left out of the sporting world due to a lack of accessibility. To ensure that everyone has the chance to take part in sports support of initiatives that make sport accessible to everyone regardless of any disability is essential. The EU and its Member States have devoted resources to boosting the visibility of people with disabilities and their involvement in sports including projects funded through Erasmus plus that are designed to help reduce any barriers that may be in place preventing people with disabilities from participating. In the same vein Ireland has contributed significant funds to organizations such as the Irish Wheelchair Association to enhance opportunities for disabled persons to participate in sports. Through these efforts the world is on the right track to a future of greater inclusion and equality for all..

[Audio] Sports are an essential part of life and everyone should be allowed to take part. People with disabilities should not be left out and should be provided the means to get involved in sports. Not only do sports offer physical advantages but also mental ones. Mental health is equally important as physical health and those with disabilities should be given the same chances as everyone else. By supporting and assisting those with disabilities to get involved in sports we can create a setting of acceptance where everyone is respected and made welcome..