Witney News - In It Together inspires disabled people to access sport

In It Together inspires disabled people to access sport

A project promoting participation in sport has led to an increase of disabled people being introduced to sport and a rise in coaches being trained to work in this field.

The "In It Together" project encouraged people with learning disabilities to engage in sports activities by supporting local sports clubs and coaches to develop their inclusive opportunities.

The project coordinated by West Oxfordshire District Council and funded by Sport England, included sessions in football, zumba, basketball, trampolining, sitting volleyball and tennis.

Around 100 people have taken part in the sessions and it has also led to six sports clubs, including Windrush Valley Amateur Boxing Club and Minster Lovell Cricket Club, in the district committing to develop a disability sports plan.

West Oxfordshire District Council was awarded the London 2012 Inspire mark last June in recognition for its work in encouraging disabled people's participation in sports.

The Inspire mark is given to the most accessible, participative and stimulating projects and events that have been inspired by the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012.

Cllr Richard Langridge, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: "It was a great honour to have received the inspire mark from the Olympic committee.

"We are dedicated to providing opportunities for the whole community and this project has inspired many disabled people to get into sport.

“We know that sport can change people's lives and we hope that this project will not only encourage more disabled people to get involved but also for more clubs to develop their inclusive opportunities."

The In It Together celebration event is being held next Thursday (March 29), to recognise the achievements of individuals who have participated in the project, and offers people the chance to take part in some mini tournaments of sports delivered through the project.