Participation of Disabled Individuals Within Disability Sport

Abstract

Participation within disability sport is increasing in awareness and popularity. However there is limited data and literature available that examines the specific factors that can influence or hinder participation rates. This study sets out to provide a theoretical and practical overview of issue and influences faced when participation (sic) within disability sport. A series of interviews were carried out in order to gain an in depth understanding into the influences when participating within disability sport and provided a detailed overview of factors that hindered participation as well. The key findings were that participation within an educational setting was key to continuing to take part in disability sport throughout the participants adult life, furthermore the results highlighted the barriers disabled athletes face when accessing facilities and potential sports clubs and centres. Prospective studies that examines in depth the influences current initiatives and government policies have upon participation rates are needed to develop the understanding of disability sport and how to continue to promote it throughout society.