Voices for Change Report

The Voices for Change campaign spotlights the challenges faced by disabled and disadvantaged children who want to participate in sports.

Research shows that disabled children from low-income families face multiple barriers to sports participation. Many families struggle with the prohibitive costs of specialised equipment – with adaptive sports equipment often costing up to 100 times more than standard equipment.

Beyond equipment costs, significant barriers include limited accessible facilities, transportation challenges, and a shortage of trained coaches with expertise in adaptive sports. For families already struggling with the additional costs of disability, estimated at £581 extra per month, these barriers can make sports participation seem impossible.  

Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, in support of Variety’s Voices for Change states:

“We need disabled children to have better access to sports, whether that’s through the right equipment, training or getting to and from activities. Not every child will become a Paralympian, but every child should have the chance to try out sports – and even fail!”

The Rt Hon Stephanie Peacock, Minister for Sport, Media, Civil Society and Youth, added:

“The Variety Disability Sports Awards is a fantastic event that celebrates achievements in disability sports at all levels. We know access to sport plays a key role in building self-esteem, raising aspirations and improving wellbeing, and this government is committed to working with the sector as we seek to break down the barriers to access and participation for all.”