Join the ParalympicsGB Lived Experience Advisory Board: Make a Difference

As a member of the Local Advisory Board (LAB), you will be at the heart of driving positive change for the disabled community through the power of sport. This role transcends mere advisory duties; it is about genuine co-production and collaborative efforts with a welcoming and approachable team. Your contributions will help shape programme decisions across key initiatives, including Every Body Moves, Get Set, Equal Play, and Beyond the Podium. The aim? To ensure that our initiatives authentically resonate with the needs and aspirations of disabled individuals in the UK.

Entering its second term, we’re expanding the LAB’s focus in alignment with our new social impact strategy. We invite you to share your experiences and insights to co-produce programmes that facilitate active participation for the entire disabled community—making opportunities for exercise not only open but enjoyable and accessible.

Shaping the Future of Paralympic Sports

In a country where Paralympic athletes have inspired millions—such as the phenomenal success of the GB Paralympic Team at the Tokyo Games, where they secured 124 medals—there is a palpable momentum to support the inclusion and engagement of disabled individuals in all aspects of sport. Just think about it: each medal tells a story of resilience, determination, and triumph against the odds, reminding us of the remarkable capabilities of disabled individuals when given the right resources and opportunities.

Our objective is to create environments where individuals can thrive physically and emotionally through sport. This not only benefits the athletes but enriches communities, shifting perspectives and widening participation in physical activities. Why are these opportunities so important? Because they empower individuals; they rewrite narratives and challenge outdated views. When society rallies behind inclusivity in sports, it paves the way for behavioural change beyond the playing field.

The LAB’s role is to act as a conduit between the community and the initiatives being implemented. By taking an active role in shaping our programmes, members will bring diverse experiences that can lead to innovative solutions. For instance, in the Every Body Moves initiative, insights from LAB members can enhance strategies focused on creating accessible sports environments. Have we considered how accessible transport can be integrated? Could tailored training sessions lead to pathways for individuals who have never participated in sports before?

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The Power of Diversity in Decision Making

Diversity is at the core of effective decision-making. With team members from varied backgrounds and experiences, our LAB can ensure our work authentically reflects the realities faced by disabled individuals. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about making decisions influenced by genuine lived experiences. When the voices of the community are at the table, the outcomes are richer and more meaningful.

Your unique perspective can help sharpen our approach towards mainstreaming disability across all sport initiatives. For instance, as we push for equality in sports settings, how can we collectively advocate for improved facilities? How do we ensure that the next generation of athletes, like our future stars competing in events such as the World Para Athletics Championships, believe that they, too, can stand on a podium? By actively participating in discussions around facility upgrades and accessible programming, we can ignite the spark of possibility.

Engaging in conversations around inclusivity also illuminates the historical context of Paralympic sports. It’s worth considering the journey that led us to the historic 2012 London Paralympics, where the event dramatically shifted public perception, setting a gold standard for future competitions. That moment showcased athletic brilliance and challenged societal norms. So, what will our legacy be? How will our actions now shape the future for disabled individuals in sport?

The statistics speak volumes. According to recent data from Sport England, around 2.4 million disabled adults would like to be more physically active. With the LAB’s input, we can develop practical strategies to break down barriers to participation. Whether it’s ensuring facilities are accessible, coaching staff trained in disability awareness, or creating inclusive competitions, the LAB’s insights are invaluable for building a future where everyone has the opportunity to participate in sport.

The Challenge of Change

However, with such noble aspirations comes the challenge of change. How do we mobilise individuals and communities to embrace these initiatives? How do we capture the imagination of the public and cultivate a vibrant ecosystem of engagement? This is where the LAB’s role becomes critical; collectively, we can craft compelling narratives that showcase the transformative power of sport.

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Imagine a future where local community teams are formed specifically for individuals with disabilities, fostering social connection while championing fitness. Visualise a time when schools actively include adaptive sports in their curriculums, empowering young athletes from an early age. The possibilities are expansive, and your role in the LAB could be pivotal in making these visions a reality.

Moreover, let’s not forget about the inspiring role models that emerge from our initiatives. Athletes such as Ellie Simmonds and Jonnie Peacock exemplify the spirit of perseverance and ambition. Their stories ignite hope and possibility—who will be the next athlete to inspire? How can we, as a community, ensure that more disabled individuals see themselves represented in the world of sport?

As we stand on the cusp of a new chapter, the work of the LAB is crucial in amplifying voices and creating opportunities. Together, we can ensure that through sport, we inspire a better world for disabled individuals, paving the way for generations to come.