Disability Sports Coach has launched the second phase of its #DSCAtHome initiative.
The scheme has seen the charity distribute more than 300 packs of sports equipment so that disabled people across London can enjoy physical activity throughout lockdown.
A key pillar of Disability Sports Coach’s work is their Community Clubs programme for disabled people to get active, socialise and have fun.
Lockdown has had a devastating impact. As community facilities closed, it has been harder than ever for disabled people to stay active – particularly as many do not use the internet. Many were also at risk of becoming isolated and, whilst the country is now phasing out of lockdown, a large number of disabled people will remain shielding over the coming months.
EMPOWER
Without the support that the weekly clubs provided, many of the charity’s members said that they were feeling lonelier than ever – hence the need for #DSCAtHome, which aims to empower and motivate as many disabled people as possible to stay active and socialise from the safety of their own homes.
The programme consists of sports packs featuring skipping ropes, footballs and beanbags, with free downloadable activity cards outlining fun ways to use the equipment. In addition, the charity runs weekly live Zoom workouts and Social Saturday catch-ups for its members.
#DSCAtHome has reached more than 500 disabled people and, with more activities and packs planned, the project is going from strength to strength.
A parent of one Community Club member commented: “The options for our child to have access to meaningful and fun activities are very small. The equipment pack and online sessions from Disability Sports Coach are a lifeline. They bring her much joy and makes her and our world a little bigger and brighter.”
POWERFUL
Peter Ackred, who is Chief Executive of Disability Sports Coach, explained: “At the start of lockdown, there was a real risk that members of the disabled community could become even more isolated and lonely.
“Here at Disability Sports Coach, we know just how powerful community sport can be for improving disabled individuals’ mental and physical health, so we were determined to keep disabled people engaged, connected and active during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We have been delighted to see the impact of our #DSCAtHome programme so far, and have seen every day just how much joy it brings to our members.
“But with thousands of disabled people lacking access to sport and feeling anxious about returning to activities when lockdown eases, our work isn’t done yet. We are determined to reach even more disabled people across London and the UK in the next few months.”
To find out more about Disability Sports Coach, visit its page on the ConnectSport directory. To add your organisation for free, email hello@connectsport.co.uk.
