Voices for Change

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.”