Inclusive practices remain important cornerstone of the London Sport Awards

On International Day of Disabled People, Specialist Advisor for Disability Alex Gibbons looks at how inclusive practices continue to be an important cornerstone of the London Sport Awards.

Two years ago, I wrote a piece about why there is no disability sport category at the London Sport Awards and, on International Day for Disabled People, I’m glad to say this is still the case.

I’m glad because our efforts continue, as do those of our valued stakeholders, to embed the inclusion of deaf and disabled people into our day-to-day work – it’s integral to all that we do.

It was no surprise (to me at least) then to see not one but two fantastic projects who put deaf and disabled people front and centre winning London Sport Awards back in March.

Firstly, Disability Sports Coach (DSC) were recognised for their work to develop a workforce that understands the needs of Londoners of every background to deliver physical activity in the capital.

In 2018, they trained and deployed more than 100 coaches and volunteers to support the delivery of over 1,500 hours of disability sport across 16 London boroughs.

Meanwhile, Panathlon Challenge – a charity providing sporting opportunities for disabled children - picked up the Children and Young Person Award at Twickenham Stadium for their amazing work.

And it wasn’t the charity’s only success as they lifted a Sport and Recreation Alliance Award in the Youth Development category just 24 hours after our Awards at the home of English rugby.

I cannot wait to hear about more fantastic initiatives, organisations, groups and individuals supporting deaf and disabled to be more active at the London Sport Awards in 2020.

Nominations are now open across eight categories – including Workforce and Children and Young People – and you can find out more about all of them, including the nomination criteria here.

This year has also seen the introduction of a new Award, Inspiring Young Person of the Year, and wouldn’t it send an incredibly powerful message if the first winner was a deaf or disabled person?

There is so much happening for us to celebrate at the London Sport Awards each year and we need you to tell us about it by nominating yourself, your partners and your unsung heroes today. 

Nominate a project or organisation for a London Sport Award here.