The success of the Paralympic Athletes Community Training (PACT) initiative has ignited a new spark among athletes, enhancing their confidence and equipping them with the vital skills required to advocate for their causes. Athletes who participated in PACT described their experiences as transformative, highlighting the powerful impact of the online and in-person events designed to help them take the reins in their advocacy efforts.

What did athletes have to say about PACT?

Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, showcasing both excitement and gratitude for the programme. One athlete enthused, “I loved all the aspects of the course; doing online, mentoring and in-person sessions was just brilliant. It’s a shame it’s over!” Another echoed their sentiments, saying, “The day was honestly brilliant. I loved being in a room with so many passionate people and learning from everyone. The only thing I’d wish for in the future is a longer, two-day course!”

The programme provided clarity on campaigning, as one participant remarked, “It opened up a bit of clarity for me about what campaigning and advocacy can look like, and how to start building campaigns and expanding existing work.” This sense of understanding translated into a newfound enthusiasm for action.

The involvement of guest speakers also enhanced the experience; as one participant noted, “The guest speaker was fantastic and exactly the kind of positive and galvanising note we needed to finish on. The whole event was very friendly and made it easy to ask questions and contribute… It was a great introduction.” This openness fostered an environment where athletes felt comfortable not only sharing insights but also growing together as a community.

The camaraderie was evident throughout the day, which culminated in one Paralympian, Roy Turnham, sharing the impact PACT had on his journey. “Since completing PACT, I’ve just founded a community interest company called Vision Through Action, which is based on the issues I wanted to campaign for, that is, improved sports and fitness opportunities at grassroots level, which transfer into day-to-day situations.”

Such initiatives are essential, as they underline the ripple effect of the support provided by PACT. The programme empowers athletes, guiding them to leverage their platforms for change and advocacy within their communities—a crucial dimension of adaptive sports.

ParalympicsGB and SMK’s collaboration has proved to be a significant milestone, leading to the announcement of an enhanced version of PACT set for 2025. This upcoming project promises to deliver increased mentoring, resources, and networking opportunities for athletes eager to make a difference.

Nicci Bailey, Athlete Community & Social Impact Manager at ParalympicsGB, explained the motivation behind this initiative: “We recognised a gap in training that addresses Paralympians’ unique experiences and contributions. Athletes were eager to use their platforms for causes they care about, but often lacked guidance. Collaborating with SMK, we co-created a programme tailored to their needs, giving back to those who’ve given so much to the Paralympic Movement.”

The ambition of ParalympicsGB extends beyond skill development; it strives to harness the influence of Paralympic athletes to inspire societal change. As Bailey stated, “The more athletes we empower, the closer we get to achieving this mission.”

Participants are invited to apply for PACT 2025, a golden opportunity to expand their outreach and advocacy skills. Athletes interested in applying or seeking further details about the course can email athletecommunity@morethanthegames.co.uk.

For those looking to stay connected with the ongoing progress of the Athlete Community programme, signing up will ensure you receive the latest updates regarding upcoming opportunities.

In a world where the power of sport resonates on and off the field, it is evident that initiatives like PACT are not just about training athletes; they are about creating a movement—one that champions both individual empowerment and collective impact. By equipping sportspeople with the necessary tools, PACT is helping to reshape the narratives surrounding disability in sport and inspiring the next wave of advocates within the Paralympic community.

Ultimately, PACT serves as a reminder that every interaction, every session, and every voice contributes to the larger narrative of adaptive sports—a narrative driven by passion, purpose, and an unyielding quest for equality in every arena.

We are the British Paralympic Association, known as ParalympicsGB. As the National Paralympic Committee for Great Britain, it is our responsibility to select, prepare, enter, fund, and manage the ParalympicsGB team at the Summer and Winter Paralympic Games. Yet, our role extends far beyond merely assembling a world-class sports team renowned for its medal-winning prowess across a diverse range of disciplines.

Driving Change Through Sport

At ParalympicsGB, we are committed to driving positive, sustainable change for disabled people within UK society. Over the past two years, our focus on social impact has intensified, shaped by invaluable insights gleaned from athletes, members of the disabled community, and leaders in the sport, education, and disability sectors. This listening process is not just a tick-box exercise; it’s a core component of our ethos, rooted in understanding the true needs and aspirations of the community we serve.

Our ambition is to harness the transformative power of the Paralympics, leveraging the unparalleled spirit of Paralympic athletes to inspire a shift in attitudes toward disability. We envision a society where equality is not just a goal but a reality—be it in sport, education, or the broader community. To achieve this, our approach is fundamentally disabled-led, ensuring that the voices and experiences of those directly impacted are central to our initiatives.

Exciting Times Ahead

With the thrill of the Paris Paralympic Games lingering in our memories and the recent publication of our strategy document, *Championing Change: Creating Social Impact 2024-2032*, this is a pivotal time to engage with us. Whether you’re an aspiring athlete, a seasoned professional, or someone passionate about disability advocacy, there has never been a more electrifying moment to join our cause.

A world of opportunity awaits. We offer an impressive suite of benefits, including a competitive pension scheme, a cycle-to-work initiative, an employee assistance programme, and private healthcare coverage, coupled with a generous holiday entitlement that underscores our dedication to work-life balance.

A Modern, Flexible Work Environment

Located in accessible, modern offices in the heart of London, we also boast a dedicated performance hub at Loughborough University—a cornerstone for training and athlete preparation. Our organisational culture prioritises flexibility in working patterns, reflecting our understanding that everyone has unique needs and approaches to work. This flexibility allows us to create an environment where all staff can thrive, ensuring that our operational goals align with personal aspirations.

But don’t just take our word for it. Come and meet us! We are a team that embodies community spirit and collaboration. A recent staff survey revealed the following sentiments:

• “There is a real sense of team and a strong sense of pride throughout the organisation. People really work well together.”
• “Being part of an organisation with real impact and purpose, working alongside genuinely kind and talented people.”
• “It’s a great environment to work in, where you have the knowledge that you are making a difference.”

Inspiring Through Athletics

As we gear up for the exciting competitions ahead, it’s worth reflecting on the remarkable achievements of our athletes. The latest statistics from the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games showcased an impressive performance from Team GB, securing over 124 medals**—a testament to months, if not years, of dedication and hard work. These athletes are not just competitors; they are trailblazers, challenging perceptions and breaking barriers with every event.

As we stand on the cusp of another exciting chapter, ask yourself: Are you ready to embrace the challenge? Together, we can champion change and create a more inclusive landscape for disabled individuals in sports and beyond—because every leap, every victory, and every life changed matters immensely.

ParalympicsGB has reached an important milestone by achieving Disability Confident Leader status, the highest tier in the Department for Work and Pensions’ Disability Confident Scheme. This significant accolade not only showcases the organisation’s steadfast dedication to fostering an environment of Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) but also highlights its commitment to placing these values at the core of all decision-making processes.

At the helm of this transformative journey is ParalympicsGB’s Board and Executive Team, who are resolutely focused on implementing the IDEA Plan. Approved by UK Sport in the summer of 2024, this plan outlines key actions to ensure that the organisation excels in its efforts toward inclusivity. In a public display of their dedication, the Board has introduced a new Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility Leadership Charter, committing to a range of pledges that aim to elevate the fabric of the organisation.

Pledges for a Future of Inclusion

The tenets of this charter are designed to serve as a guiding light for ParalympicsGB’s ongoing evolution. Among these significant pledges are:

• Embracing diversity within the organisation to foster creativity and enhance decision-making processes.
• Creating a safe environment where individuals can voice concerns about behaviours or practices that hinder inclusivity.
• Upholding a strict policy against all forms of abusive behaviour, targeting issues based on age, disability, gender identity, pregnancy or maternity, marriage or civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, social background, or neurodiversity.
• Vigilantly monitoring the experiences of individuals within ParalympicsGB, and actively responding to any issues raised.

As the largest disability sport charity in the UK, ParalympicsGB, under the stewardship of CEO Dave Clarke, is fervently dedicated to making a lasting impact. Reflecting on this achievement, Clarke stated, “I am proud that we have achieved the coveted Disability Confident Leader status and remain fully committed to continuing our journey to be leaders in Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility. This ambitious plan aims to make ParalympicsGB a place where everyone, regardless of their background or characteristics, is welcomed and thrives.”

Despite this progress, Clarke acknowledged that the journey is ongoing: “We know we are not perfect, and this plan recognises that it is not enough simply to express these sentiments. We think of ourselves as an inclusive organisation, yet the data tells us that there are areas where we are not as diverse and representative as we wish to be.” Such reflection underscores the organisation’s commitment to improvement, ever inspired by the high standards set by Paralympic athletes who consistently overcome obstacles in their pursuit of greatness.

Empowering Through Data and Feedback

To inform the development of the IDEA plan, comprehensive data was gathered on the diversity within ParalympicsGB. Feedback from employees and stakeholders provided vital insights into how the organisation is perceived regarding its inclusion and accessibility initiatives. This data is akin to a zero-sum game, revealing both strengths and weaknesses in the organisation’s multifaceted approach to diversity.

Through this analysis, a robust action plan has emerged, meticulously crafted to position ParalympicsGB as a leading force in driving positive change. The goal is to ensure that the organisation’s diversity reflects the UK population, fostering a sense of belonging akin to the camaraderie famously displayed during the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, where Team GB united not just as athletes, but as a family.

Accountability in Action

Central to the IDEA Plan is the commitment to accountability. Clear processes will be set in place to measure and assess progress, alongside the identification of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that will serve as a benchmark for success. This governance will underpin the delivery and ongoing evolution of the work, ensuring that ParalympicsGB remains steadfast in its mission.

As in every Paralympic competition, where every millisecond counts, the careful tracking of these benchmarks is paramount. The focus on measurable outcomes reaffirms the organisation’s resolve to exhibit transparency at every stage, akin to the clarity of purpose seen in athletes racing towards the finish line, driven by dreams of gold.

Reflecting on these ambitions, Clarke emphasises, “A ParalympicsGB where everyone is welcome and feels a sense of belonging is a ParalympicsGB shaped by togetherness, energy, and commitment. That in turn becomes an organisation capable of great achievement and social change.”

Through this undertaking, ParalympicsGB is not just creating spaces; it is cultivating a landscape where aspirations know no bounds. The determination to ask difficult questions and maintain a spirit of openness is the very essence of progress. As new chapters unfold for the organisation, they stand as a testament to the belief that inclusivity is not merely a goal, but a journey — one that fuels aspirations to reach new heights in the realm of adaptive sports.

Read the full ParalympicsGB IDEA Plan and timelines.

Athletes who donned the ParalympicsGB colours in Paris, alongside Chef de Mission Penny Briscoe, have been honoured in the King’s New Year Honours 2025 list. This recognition is not merely a medal; it is a testament to their tireless dedication and remarkable achievements in the world of adaptive sports.

Among the distinguished recipients, both Penny Briscoe and Hannah Cockroft shone brightly, each awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for their profound service to Paralympic sport. Cockroft, a powerhouse on the track, secured two gold medals in Paris, further cementing her legacy and contributing to the inspirational narrative of the Equal Play Campaign film. Her role in promoting inclusivity in sports has made profound ripples beyond the tracks and fields.

Honours list

The honours don’t stop there. Other notable figures featured prominently in the list, including Lauren Rowles and Sammi Kinghorn, both awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE). Rowles carved her name into history as the first rower to win gold medals at three consecutive Paralympic Games, a feat that echoes the relentless spirit and perseverance synonymous with Paralympic athletes. Meanwhile, Kinghorn’s extraordinary performance at the Stade de France, where she clinched five medals, showcased her indomitable spirit and unmatched skill.

Among those receiving the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) accolade, we find the iconic Stephen McGuire, who clinched gold in the Boccia BC4 category. His victory, a culmination of years of dedication and grit, not only illustrates his personal journey but also embodies the essence of perseverance inherent in the Paralympic movement. Alongside him were Para-cycling star Sophie Unwin and her tandem partner Jenny Holl, who have been lighting up the velodromes and breaking barriers together.

These accolades serve as a bright beacon of inspiration. They remind us of the extraordinary athletes behind the medals—each one a story of triumph over adversity, dedication, and sheer talent. But why does this recognition matter? Beyond the glittering medals and official titles, these awards signify a broader acknowledgment of the relentless work and commitment that goes into competing at the highest level of sports.

As these athletes bask in the well-deserved glory, let’s not forget the journey they undertook to reach such dizzying heights. The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games were laden with challenges and fierce competition, yet athletes like Cockroft and Kinghorn have proven time and again that their spirit can overcome obstacles, both on and off the field. The resilience they display serves as an inspiration to all.

Consider the sheer volume of points and records set during the Games. Cockroft alone shattered expectations, illuminating the stadium while leading the charge for equal recognition in sports. Will her efforts lead to a seismic shift in policies regarding inclusivity in competition? Only time will tell, but her impact has already made enormous strides.

In the world of Paralympics, classification is paramount to fair competition. It ensures that athletes compete on a level playing field, allowing their abilities, rather than disabilities, to take centre stage. This intricate system is continuously evolving, pushing boundaries on what it means to be an athlete. Many of these honourees have not just embraced their classifications; they have often transcended them, setting new standards within their respective sports.

As we celebrate these magnificent achievements, it is equally important to highlight the ongoing pursuit for visibility and equality in sports. The recognition afforded to these athletes is a significant step forward, yet there remains a journey ahead—a journey powered by passion, dedication, and the unyielding desire to inspire the next generation. Every medal, every honour, every breakthrough serves as a reminder of the relentless march towards equality in sports.

In a society eager for change and progress, the narratives of these athletes are more than mere stories; they are calls to action. How will we advocate for greater opportunities, visibility, and support for all aspiring athletes, regardless of their background or ability? These questions form the backbone of the future of adaptive sports.

As we look forward to the next chapter in Paralympic history, we celebrate not only the individual victories but also the collective triumphs of the entire community. Each honour bestowed upon our athletes in the New Year Honours list shines a spotlight on the remarkable talent and achievement present in Paralympic sport. With each step taken on their journeys, these athletes have not only altered the course of their own lives but have also paved the way for future generations to dream bigger and fight harder.

The Paralympic movement continues to inspire, and as we head towards upcoming events and competitions, one can’t help but wonder—what will be the next historic moment that will leave us in awe? The stage is set; the spotlight is on. The next chapter awaits, and it promises to be thrilling.