Disability Sports Coach - creating inclusive opportunities
For more than a decade, Disability Sports Coach has been transforming lives through the power of sport and physical activity. As part of Volunteers' Week we want to highlight all the charity does to ensure disabled people have access to welcoming, inclusive opportunities to be active, connect with others, and feel part of their communities.
Founded in 2012, Disability Sports Coach delivers community clubs, inclusive coaching sessions, training courses, and school-based programmes across London. Their mission is simple but powerful, to use sport and physical activity to enhance the lives of disabled people. Through their work, thousands of disabled children and adults have been supported to improve their health, build confidence, develop skills, and reduce social isolation.
Volunteers play a vital role in making this impact possible. From supporting community club sessions and sports festivals to providing one-to-one assistance and helping participants engage in activities, volunteers are at the heart of Disability Sports Coach’s delivery.
Courtney, a DSC volunteer, has autism. She explained why she got involved with the orgainsation at a recent multi-sport session in Hackney.
“I know how much sport has been able to help me cope and manage some struggles that I have. So, I thought it was a good opportunity to help others find a purpose and find strength, and be happy through sport as well.
Salim was another volunteer at the session:
“The reason I applied to become a volunteer for Disability Sports Coach was because I wanted to learn more about adaptive sports…I wanted to bring some of my experiences into Disability Sports Coach so I can help out people with various disabilities.”
Both agreed that one of the highlights of a session is seeing the group develop, enjoying not only the sports but being part of a wider group. Courtney added:
“Each session you watch people progress and enjoy it more, get engaged more. It’s just so nice to see everyone come together and be able to have fun doing something together as a little team.”
Disability Sports Coach is also committed to developing the next generation of inclusive coaches and leaders. Through specialist training and mentoring, they help volunteers, teachers, and coaches gain the knowledge and confidence needed to create welcoming environments where everyone can take part.
During Volunteers’ Week, we celebrate the dedicated volunteers who help Disability Sports Coach break down barriers to participation and create positive experiences for disabled people every day. Their contribution demonstrates the important role volunteers play in building a more inclusive future for sport and physical activity.
