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The national charity and leading voice for disabled people in sport and activity

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“Pass the baton” for all disabled people to be active

The English Federation of Disability Sport is pleased to announce our promotional campaign, which begins today. We are encouraging everyone to champion participation at all levels and “Pass the baton”.

EFDS are celebrating the Games, which promises to engage audiences with more interest and excitement than ever before. We hope the inclusive legacy for disabled people is noticeable long after the Games have finished, as not every disabled person wants to or can be a Paralympian. Sport and exercise is for all, no matter how people decide to enjoy it. So join our campaign to support our team as well as inspiring many others beyond 2012. We are inviting everyone to “pass the baton”.

Barry Horne, Chief Executive for EFDS said:

“We know the London 2012 Paralympic Games is a fantastic opportunity to motivate more disabled people in sport. So while you celebrate the achievements of our elite disabled athletes, who have followed their dreams in sport, let’s get together and make more opportunities inclusive- supporting more disabled people to be active. We can make sport and physical activity enjoyable for everyone. Our recent research study showed that the biggest hurdle for disabled people in taking part was a psychological barrier. The perceptions, opinions and attitudes of and towards disabled people are stopping participation on a national scale. “Pass the baton” campaign celebrates inclusive sport at every level”.

The poster element of the campaign will run across nine London Underground stations and three in Newcastle. It is a striking design to emphasise sport for all and features Ben Rowlings. Ben is a 16 year old junior athlete from Telford, who has come through the Playground to Podium Initiative and the EFDS events programme, Disability Sport Events. We are proud to support the young star in reaching his potential.

Ben said:

“I love the posters. Sport changed my life and has made me the person I am today. I can't wait for the next few years and possibly Rio! EFDS have been brilliant. I've been introduced to many sports via the Playground to Podium days.  Also, I’ve had access to loads of different competitions, from beginner level upwards, until I was able to choose which one suited me best”.

The poster calls for the public to support the campaign in numerous ways, including using the Twitter hashtag #passthebaton.

Here’s how you can show support:

  • No matter how big or small, every penny makes a difference. Donate through our fundraising page to support our charity in so many ways. www.justgiving.com/passthebaton 
  • Sign up to a fundraising event and give yourself a challenge!   
  • Register on our website for regular information and support for your own sport or exercise programmes  
  • If you are a disabled person- make that change to be active today! Disabled people can flick through our range of participation opportunities 
  • Use the hashtag! #passthebaton on Twitter and like our Facebook page. 

Pass the baton on for disabled people with every impairment and ability to enjoy an active lifestyle.

Remember to tweet #passthebaton to spread the word

For more information, contact Sarah Marl