Momentum magazine Issue Three

momentum www.momentummagazine.co.uk

ISSUE THREE

magazine

In Association with:

>> INSIDE:

> Accessible Climbing: > Rugby:

The British Mountaineering Can Rugby League be truly inclusive of all Council (BMC) disabled people?

> Blind Football:

A day in the life of Will Norman

Sports Academy

“It’s about being the best you can be” Danny Mills, Former England Footballer and RNC Ambassador

www.rnc.ac.uk

RNC I Momentum

“ I have a strong belief in the power of sport to encourage, inspire and drive people forward ”

The UK’s first Sports Academy for people who are visually impaired

>> Dave Clarke, Former GB Blind Football Captain and Sports Academy Patron.

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he Royal National College for the Blind (RNC) is proud to be launching the UK’s first sports academy for people who are visually impaired, allowing young people the opportunity to access sport alongside their studies.

The Academy provides opportunities to participate in sport at all levels, from those with potential to reach elite level, to those who have never been given the opportunity to try sport. We are here to help people achieve their full potential.

Three main sports are on offer at the Academy: Goalball, Football and Golf, with a wide range of other sports also available including cricket, netball, Boccia and tennis - all adapted to ensure those who are visually impaired are able to take part.

Former RNC student and GB Goalball player Laura Perry commented: “I didn’t even know Goalball existed before I came to RNC. The feeling I get when I throw a really hard ball is difficult to describe - but I’ve missed it. The power I used to feel when I could see, playing rugby or in goal at hockey, the physical nature of it – I get a bit of that back when playing Goalball and I love it!”

Sport is so much more than physical activity. It helps to develop confidence, communication skills, team work and self-esteem as well as general health and well-being.

>> Former RNC student and GB Goalball player Laura Perry

People who are blind or partially sighted often have limited access to sports in school, college and their communities as a whole, which in turn means they miss out on learning these crucial developmental skills alongside their fully sighted peers.

The RNC Sports Academy is designed to address this imbalance.

The Royal National College for the Blind, based in Hereford, is the UK’s leading specialist residential provider of further education for people aged 16 to 65 with a visual impairment. Students can study a wide range of subjects at a variety of different levels including A Levels, BTECs, NVQs and GCSEs. Many go on to University, living and learning independently. Some choose to go straight into employment. We work with each individual to ensure they achieve their full potential.

For more information on the Sports Academy please call 01432 376 621, email info@rnc.ac.uk or visit www.rnc.ac.uk

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Contents I Momentum

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With Thanks to: BMC, Fran Brown, Will Norman, Handigolf, Lee Audis, British Athletics, RFL, GFORCE, Arena, England & Wales Cricket Board, EFDS, oneathlete, WheelPower, Sport England, Dwarf Sport Association UK, UK Deaf Sport, British Blind Sport, CP Sport, WDSA (UK), LimbPower, Special Olympics GB, Disability Sport Wales, Scottish Disability Sport, Sport in Mind, Disability Sport NI, Euan’s Guide, Ottobock & all advertisers.

Images Supplied: Fran Brown (Front Cover) & thanks to all other image contributors.

Published & Designed by: © Publishing Magazines Ltd www.publishingmagazinesltd.com Contact Us: Address Publishing Magazines Ltd 30A North East Business & Innovation Centre, Wearfield, Sunderland, SR5 2TH Telephone 0191 516 61 60

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48 FEATURES >> 16 > Accessible Climbing

British Mountaineering Council

18 > Bio: Fran Brown 24 > Sports Rehabilitation 38 > Blind Football

A day in the life of Will Norman

48 > Rugby

Can Rugby League be truly inclusive of all disabled people?

NEWS >> 06

10 14

> Foreword

Barry Horne, Chief Executive (EFDS)

> oneathlete

Evolution: Sam Ruddock

> Handigolf

The Disabled British Open Event

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> FA

40

> Cerebral Palsy Sport

Disability Football in the Spotlight National Football Programme

61 > Accessible Tourism

04 I Momentum I www.momentummagazine.co.uk

Email (General Enquiries) info@momentummagazine.co.uk Email (Production/Artwork Enquiries) studio@publishingmagazinesltd.com Website: www.momentummagazine.co.uk Twitter: @Momentum_Mag © Publishing Magazines Ltd 2014.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any way without written permission from the publisher. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher and although every effort has been made to ensure that the information is accurate, the publishers take no responsibility for errors and omissions.

No responsibility can be accepted by the publisher for any claims made by the advertisers in this publication.

>> Friends of Momentum Magazine

Foreword I Momentum

people are recognised as a priority audience in the physical activity framework and we will continue to seek to influence the local and national responses.

EFDS provides a platform for collaborative working throughout England. This is across many sports and organisations who support people from the main impairment groups. As a Federation, we bring together our Members’ energy and expertise. This includes the highly valued National Disability Sports Organisations (NDSOs).

In July this year, we were delighted that LimbPower were officially given NDSO status at our AGM. LimbPower works to increase sporting opportunities for amputees and those with limb loss. They joined seven other NDSOs who sit as part of EFDS’s Membership.

In early October, NDSOs and EFDS welcomed the Sport England announcement of a further boost to sport for disabled people. They awarded £2.1 million of National Lottery funding to help increase disabled people with many different impairments to play sport.

>> written by: Barry Horne Chief Executive, the English Federation of Disability Sport

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t is fantastic to welcome you back to the third edition of Momentum. Over the past two editions, it has been really encouraging to read articles on such a range of sporting opportunities for disabled people.

This is credit to many providers and their desire to ensure their programmes include more disabled people. We know that this in turn is matched by more disabled people wanting to be more active.

There are still many barriers, including attitudes, which can affect disabled people’s decisions to make sport or physical activity part of their lives. The English Federation of Disability Sport (EFDS) has worked hard this year to learn and share more about disabled people and their motivations in life as well as sport and physical activity. We have taken a huge step since 2012 in ensuring we focus on this research into disabled people’s lives. Then, ensure that we share that information with a variety of organisations and top level influencers. We hope this helps to drive change, shape the relevant plans and make active lives possible.

Over the summer, we have supported Public Health England in their work to make a reality of the Government’s plan- “Everybody Active Everyday”. It was important for us to ensure that disabled

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Sport England will directly fund seven NDSOs, between October 2014 and 2017, to advise and support other sports bodies as they create opportunities for disabled people to take part in sport. They are British Blind Sport, Cerebral Palsy Sport, Dwarf Sport Association UK, Limb Power, English Learning Disability Sports Alliance (Mencap and Special Olympics GB combined), WheelPower and UK Deaf Sport.

The funding will provide impairmentspecific support to National Governing Bodies (NGBs) and deliver engagement programmes.

The investment over three years will work to strengthen the delivery of sport for disabled people, engagement and partnership creation. The purpose is to educate and support specific groups, and work with National Governing Bodies of sport (NGBs) and other organisations.

EFDS was awarded a share of the investment to provide support to NDSOs in marketing and communications as well as research and insight. We are really excited to be working with the NDSOs on this programme and support them to drive up participation within this programme.

I hope you enjoy this edition and keep sharing it with your friends, members and colleagues. Great work once again Momentum!

Everyone should have the opportunity to ski

Natural Retreats CairnGorm Mountain is proud to work with Disability Snowsport, the UK’s Skier’s and Boarder’s Charity.

We believe that skiers & snowboarders, no matter what their disability, should be able to ski and ride alongside the able bodied as equals at all snowsports facilities and resorts. The funicular railway at CairnGorm Mountain provides incredible access for all, transporting visitors to a height of 1097 metres in just four minutes.

NEWS I Momentum

Ottobock celebrates 15 years of supporting amputees with C-Leg prosthesis Key benefits of the C-Leg include on-board sensors and microprocessors to anticipate and adapt to a person’s movement, the C-Leg immediately adjusts 50 times per second to changes in walking speed and direction, providing knee stability the moment it is needed. This optimised stumble recovery feature means users are able to walk down ramps and stairs stepover-step and manoeuvre on rough terrain with a greatly reduced fear of falling.

Programmed via Bluetooth technology to match the unique gait of their sound leg, a user also has several different activity modes available to them that allow stances for biking, golfing, etc, and are activated using a remote control.

>> Louise Tait, the UK’s first ever C-Leg patient, in 2002 and 12 years later in 2014 with her daughter Rae.

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ince its introduction in 1999, the C-Leg has helped over 40,000 amputees worldwide and become the most popular microprocessor prosthetic knee in history

Ottobock, a world-leading supplier of innovative solutions for people with limited mobility, is celebrating 15 years of the C-Leg, the world’s first completely computer-controlled lower limb prosthesis.

Since its 1999 launch, the prosthesis has had a remarkable impact on many users and Ottobock has continued to develop its technology to the leg it is today. There are currently thousands of people around the world who are proud users of a C-Leg. Louise Tait, the UK’s first ever C-Leg patient, became an above knee amputee in 1987 and had problems finding a socket that fit due to the shape of her stump, she was later fitted with the innovative prosthesis.

She is still using a C-Leg over a decade later and thanks the microprocessor knee for allowing her to lead a life where she feels stable, does not have to worry about the function of her leg and has the confidence to tackle everyday situations.

Louise said: “Following the launch of the C-Leg, I was lucky enough to be the first person in the UK to try it out. I have been using a C-Leg for 15 years since its launch in 1999. Finding a knee that you trust builds confidence so everyday activities become more natural. You use less time and energy thinking about where you are stepping and more time just getting on with life. To get the most out of it you need to practice and it takes time and repetition but eventually you will be walking without constantly thinking about each step and when that happens, it’s a marvellous feeling.’

‘Even after 15 years I remember how brilliant the C-Leg felt the first time I tried it, how fluid the motion was and once I learned to trust it. I can walk down slopes with confidence and the knee doesn’t give way or collapse. When I learned to walk step-over-step down stairs, it gave me a feeling of real achievement.”

Phil Yates, Managing Director of Ottobock UK states: “We are delighted to celebrate 15 years of the C-Leg and are proud to lead the way in microprocessor knee technology.

The C-Leg has been paramount to changing the way that amputees have been fit with prosthetic knees in the past 15 years and has changed many people’s lives by providing more stability, more flexibility, and a knee that responds differently in a range of circumstances. Ottobock is also very grateful to the talented Prosthetists and dedicated patients who have helped the development of the technology across the years.”

From the 1st October 2014, when you order a C-Leg you will receive Ottobock’s 5 year extended warranty free of charge*.

For more information on Ottobock’s range of innovative solutions that restore mobility please visit www.ottobock.co.uk or follow @ottobockuk. *Effective on all orders placed from 1st October 2014 and valid until 31st December 2014. This offer is only valid for C-Leg and cannot be combined with any other promotion. Offer applies to UK customers only.

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Evolution

oneathlete I Momentum

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>> Sam Ruddock, Great Britain & N.I. Paralympic Athlete - F35 Shot Put, Youth Sport Trust Athlete Mentor

volution can be defined as the gradual development of something, but in sport it is more than that, it defines the very existence and longevity of the performance athlete. All must adapt to their environments, their training and their circumstances in order to develop and thrive, or they will eventually be left behind.

My “birth” into elite disability sport was very much like my real birth, everything happened so quickly. I was born at six months and diagnosed with cerebral palsy, my mother liked to tell me however, that I have always been in a rush. Ironic words considering I went to the London Paralympic Games as a 100m sprinter! The journey towards that incredible moment began in late 2011 when I started my progression from American football to disability track athletics. In less than six months of training (told you these births were similar), I found myself on the start line in front of thousands at the Olympic Stadium. It was nothing short of life changing.

The competition quickened going into the 2013 season, however I still didn’t understand how to sprint properly. I had to find a way to help my legs unlearn their bad habits and adapt to their new environment. That’s where Tim Stevenson and the oneathlete team stepped in. They built a strength and conditioning and physiotherapy programme around my ability vis-a-vis my spasticity. Essentially, it was tailored and I went into the outdoor meets confident that I would improve. Alas,

I couldn’t hit my PB in 2013 and my World Championship debut was more negative than positive.

2014 winter training approached and the investments I’d made in 2013, adapting my lifestyle around full-time training, trusting in Tim’s programme and committing to continuous improvement, seemed to be paying off. Yet, the competition in Europe was fierce, my teammate, Welshman Jordan Howe, boasted a personal best nearly a second faster than my own. The selection criteria set by British Athletics was equally difficult, European selection required gold medal potential in either the 2016 or 2020 Paralympic Games as a prerequisite. I didn’t fall into that bracket in sprints. That was when I made the hardest decision I have made thus far in my career to adapt or fall into irrelevance when the selectors sat at the table in the future.

It was clear I was not competing in the right field. I had to adapt and leave track, something that I genuinely loved and leave the coach that spotted my talent back in 2011, Joe McDonnell of Charnwood Athletic Club. I knew I would still see him at training, but our relationship as coach and athlete had to end if I was to develop and progress in my new discipline in the field events, the shot put.

Naturally, I am well built in my upper body and with the restricted muscle capacity affecting mainly my lower limbs it seemed an obvious change. It also became apparent that even though I considered my legs to be a disadvantage, I was the

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only competitor coming from sprints into throws. And, because of all the groundwork I’d done with oneathlete to improve my sprinting, it meant my balance and stability downstairs was actually better than most in the field. Excitingly, I could jump straight in as a strong competitor and real threat. Throws training with new coach Jim Edwards began in March 2014 and we made plans to take on the big throwers in Europe who were also, typically, the best in the world.

We are now in October 2014, winter training is in full effect, I finished 5th against a world class field at Europeans and launched that metal close to my personal best (11.89m - 4KG). It was such a thrill, a big change indeed, but it was a crucial change going forward. The European Championships were the first major competition I left feeling like I’d actually performed to my potential. I hope that with a new and realistic goal, new ambitions (including eating more meat) and the help of my invaluable team, we will be in the best position to capture a similar feeling at the World Championships in 2015.

Working with oneathlete Our job as an integrated sports performance support team, specialising in training disabled athletes, is to help our athletes meet their goals and achieve their dreams. If you want to find out more about working with us, visit our website at www.oneathlete.co.uk

sport 4_all I Momentum

Sport4-all saw Ellie’s great non-for profit support group called CP TEENS who help individuals with Cerebral Palsy and similar disabilities.

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he aim of sport4_all is to bring together everyone throughout the world to collaborate on a shared resource that can be used to engage individuals and raise standards across the globe on inclusion and disability sport.

Sport4-all saw Ellie’s great non-for profit support group called CP TEENS who help individuals with Cerebral Palsy and similar disabilities.

Ellie, who is 19-years-old and has Cerebral Palsy. A number of years ago, Ellie would have not been writing a piece for sport4all; ‘sport’ was a ‘dirty’ word for her.

Ellie saw sport as something that she definitely could not do and as something that was only for able-bodied people. Fastforward two years and Ellie’s life has totally been transformed by sport, in particular, Athletics.

The London 2012 Paralympics, to Ellie’s great surprise, captured her like nothing ever has done before, and Ellie was truly ‘inspired’! As the flames went out in the Paralympic Closing Ceremony, Ellie sat and said, ‘I want to be a Paralympian’

February 2013, Ellie was on Twitter and a tweet written by Paralympic GB appeared on her timeline regarding a ‘Sports Fest’ in Sheffield. Ellie clicked on the link for more information, and found out that the ‘Sports Fest’, which was being hosted by Paralympic GB, was an event where you could go and try out all the Paralympic Sports and meet some of the Athletes. Ellie signed up straight away!

It was one of the best days and a very memorable day, and this is even before Ellie knew what this day would lead onto for her.

A lady firstly approached Ellie from the Athletics stand at Sports Fest. Shelley is the Parallel Success Co-ordinator at British Athletics and she introduced Ellie to athletics; without realising it.

Shelly introduced Ellie to the Club Throwing. Soon as Ellie threw she felt as if she had power, which might seem bizarre, but it was a really weird feeling for her.

Ellie left her contact details in real hope that she could take the Club Throw further and Ellie went home feeling on top of the world!

Shelley found Ellie a coach (Andrew) and joined City Of Sheffield AC. For the first time ever, Ellie found something that didn’t discriminate and something that she could do. Ellie had a focus and a purpose.

Now Shelley, Andrew and other coaches if they wish, can access the sport4-all website, to use the many resources on offer such as lesson plans and much more.

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After 9 months of training, Ellie was ready to be classified. Ellie couldn’t believe her luck; she had gone from watching the Paralympics, to standing in an assessment room with Hannah Cockroft’s coach and various other individuals from British Athletics, being classified ready for competition! Ellie came out as an ‘F32’ Ellie went to her first ever competition in May this year – another ‘pinch me’ moment! Ellie was incredibly nervous, but she felt the luckiest person ever and she couldn’t quite believe that she was sat on the field alongside her heroes of 2012, like Stephen Miller and Josie Pearson! In June, I competed in the National Disability Championships where I got Silver in the F32 Women’s Club Throw.

Sport for Ellie went from being something that she dreaded, to something that she now live for!

Sport4-all has helped Ellie spread the word about her success story and mission as well as other individuals, community groups and organisations over the world including those in America and Australia.

Individuals can submit lesson plans, ideas, videos and guest blogs via our website to share with like-minded individuals, what are you waiting for?!

Twitter: @Sport4_all Email: jake@sport4-all.co.uk Website: www.sport4-all.co.uk

www.pacerehab.com

CONVERTING PATIENTS INTO PEOPLE

Rehabilitation Services Prosthetics I Orthotics Physiotherapy I Counselling Occupational Therapy Immediate Needs Assessments Expert Witness Services Quantum Reports

Above the knee amputee returns to mountain biking

Back to life – in the saddle National Referral Centre Tel: 0845 450 7357 Email: info@pacerehab.com

PACE Rehabilitation 36 Brook Street, Cheadle, Cheshire, SK8 2BX

Unit 1, Anglo Business Park, Asheridge Road, Chesham, Bucks HP5 2QA

NEWS I Momentum

THE DISABLED BRITISH OPEN GOLF EVENT Backgound

Peter Allis started an event for differently disabled golfers in Hampshire seven years ago. This was the first time one-arm, amputee, blind and wheelchair golfers had competed together in a tournament. After a couple of years there was a transition to an events management company and the event was based at The East Sussex National. However in 2013 and 2014 this event was cancelled. Hence The Handigolf Foundation stepped in and ran the 2014 event at Ufford Park in Suffolk.

Player Qualification

The field was limited by the number of golf buggies available and the number of wheelchair accessible rooms. Hence a number of application forms were allocated to the disabled golf community as follows: The prize winners from 2012 (10 starts) The Society of One-Armed Golfers SOAG (12 starts) British Amputee and Les Autres Sports Assoc Golf Section, BALASA (14 starts)

The Handigolf Foundation (wheelchair golfers) (6 starts) Disabled Golf Association for England and Wales, DGA (10 starts) Blind Golf Associations (4 starts) Scottish Disabled Golf Partnership (4 starts) Wildcards and Unaffiliated Golfers (7 starts) Each Association used its own selection criteria to send the most “appropriate” players.

Round One

Teeing off at 11am the players experienced damp conditions, not ideal for disabled golf. However the weather improved and good scores were recorded.

Prizes were awarded for the best three rounds at the Event Dinner as follows.

1st - Richard Willis an above-knee amputee from Celtic Manor GC 36 Stableford points 2nd - Tex Williamson a severely damaged leg golfer from Drax GC 34 points (on countback) 3rd - Joseph Vanaman an Asperger’s Syndrome golfer from Notts Golf Club 34 points.

Players accepting these prizes were ineligible for similar prizes based on round 2.

Round Two

>> Wheelchair golfers Phil Meadows and Tony Brouder swap cards

3rd - Maurice Lee a double arm amputee golfer from Tankersley Park GC Sheffield 35 points.

OVERALL RESULTS

The ethos of the event was to make the Nett scores of similar prestige to the Gross scores and so two tournament trophies (as shown on the event banner in the above picture) were awarded as well as the other winner’s prize vouchers.

Players could win either a gross or nett prize but not both. Combining the scores from the two rounds revealed the following results:

OVERALL GROSS STABLEFORD SCORES

1st - Joseph Vanaman - 58pts (2014 DBO Gross Champion) 2nd - Tex Williamson 50 pts 3rd - Andrew Jones from Ellesmere Port GC 49pts

OVERALL NETT STABLEFORD SCORES 1st - Richard Willis 76pts (2014 DBO Nett Champion) 2nd - Brian Parsons 66pts 3rd - Tony Brouder 65pts

Stunning conditions prevailed the following day and even better scores were recorded. Winners were as follows:

The full leader board and photo gallery are shown at www.handigolf.net until the end of 2014 when we will be preparing for the 2015 Disabled British Open.

1st - Tony Brouder a wheelchair golfer from Newcastle West GC Limerick 35 points (on countback) 2nd - Brian Parsons a Parkinson’s golfer from Castle Gorse GC Leics. 35 points (on countback)

Potential “Title” and subsidiary sponsors of this remarkable event should contact the following email address andrewgreasley@hotmail.co.uk

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I Momentum

Residential Sports Opportunities in Hereford The Royal National College for the Blind (RNC) boasts facilities that hold their own against many competitive sports and conference venues across the UK. With fully accessible accommodation and catering to suit all requirements it’s easy to see why RNC enjoys an excellent reputation for hosting major national and international sports events. So if you are thinking about organising a residential sports event, why not pay us a visit?  Multi-sport facilities including netball, football, goalball and Boccia  Sports Hall – acoustically treated, anti-glare lighting  Astro Pitch – international level futsal pitch  Hydrotherapy pool and spa areas

 Fully accessible, ensuite accommodation  Conference and meeting/training rooms  Catering to suit all dietary requirements  Flexible, fully inclusive tailored packages

Let our friendly, experienced staff take the stress out of organising your event and make it the success you want it to be. Call us to find out more 01432 376 635 or email gardner@rnc.ac.uk The Royal National College for the Blind, Venns Lane, Hereford HR1 1DT Company limited by guarantee no. 2367626 Registered charity no. 1000388

www.rnc.ac.uk RNCHereford

@RNC_official

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Accessible Climbing

Adventure Sports I Momentum

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Credit: Bendrigg Trust

>> Provided By: The British Mountaineering Council

s climbing accessible to people with disabilities? Yes, absolutely. Britain boasts a paraclimbing world champion, an amputee Mountain Leader and a qualified climbing wall instructor with cerebral palsy. Above all, it’s a really supportive community for those wishing to try out the sport.

Climbing, hill walking and mountaineering are activities that are incredibly fulfilling as well as physically and mentally demanding.

People of all ages, abilities and backgrounds can enjoy these activities and disability needn’t be seen as a barrier to participation.

With a wide range of activities, from indoor climbing to mountaineering, there’s plenty of scope to find an activity that suits you.

Many people climb purely for recreation and fitness, while others choose to compete or even make it their job.

The BMC

The British Mountaineering Council (BMC) is the representative body for climbers, hill walkers and mountaineers in England and Wales. We have an Equity Steering Group which works to remove any barriers to participation and we are also implementing a Disability Action Plan.

The BMC supports providers of climbingrelated activities to be inclusive of disabilities. The BMC has helped to produce two booklets – ‘Climbing for all’ and ‘Hill walking for all’ and in 2013 we hosted a disability symposium at the Lake District Calvert Trust specialist outdoor centre.

To enable climbers to meet and compete against others with disabilities, the BMC

runs an annual paraclimbing series. There are eight different categories covering limb loss and impairment, sensory impairment, learning difficulties, emotional and behavioural difficulties, ADHD and Autistic Spectrum Condition.

GB Paraclimbing Team – inspiring successes

It’s really early days in the development of paraclimbing, however, the GB Paraclimbing Team already has a world champion – Fran Brown (see page 18). GB Paraclimbing Team manager Graeme Hill says “It’s absolutely fantastic to see disabled climbers having the opportunity to step into the competition arena at such a high level. The GB Team won an impressive six medals at this year’s World Paraclimbing Championships. “A number of the disability categories need higher numbers but the growth of the sport is very exciting.” Through the work of ice climbing ace Andy Turner, interest is also growing in the sport of ice climbing and dry tooling and there are positive steps to set up a GB para ice-climbing team.

Reaching great heights

A number of climbers with disabilities have gone on to achieve qualifications which enable them to lead others in the mountains or instruct indoors. Nik Royale, a climber with progressive cerebral palsy, set himself the personal target of passing his Climbing Wall Award which means he is now qualified to instruct others at an indoor climbing wall. He has also climbed to the summit of Tryfan in North Wales. Quadruple amputee Jamie Andrew gained his Mountain Leader after losing both hands and feet.

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Jamie said: “Becoming a Mountain Leader seemed out of the question. But over the years I have trained myself to always question limiting self-beliefs…Everyone involved in my training and assessment was extremely open and helpful in finding ways to overcome the obstacles I faced.”

How to get into climbing

Back to the excitement of being a beginner, what are the first steps to get into climbing? Give the BMC a ring on 0161 445 6111. As mentioned earlier, the BMC has got an Equity Steering Group which has provided a great deal of knowledge around disability providing the BMC with the tools to answer a much broader set of questions.

Many walls and providers are now much more accessible either through their own initiative or by attending the Climbing for All course. The BMC’s domestic paraclimbing series is a completely open event. It doesn’t matter if you haven’t climbed before, you can still enter. Coaching for disabled people is also on the increase. It is also worth keeping an eye on the BMC website, BMC TV, Twitter and Facebook where information and videos relating specifically to disability events are posted.

Connect with the BMC

Website: www.thebmc.co.uk BMC TV: www.thebmc.tv Twitter: www.twitter.com/Team_BMC @Team_BMC Facebook: www.facebook.com/ BritishMountaineeringCouncil Join the BMC www.thebmc.co.uk/join

SET YOUR SIGHTS ON KAYAKING

From your first paddle strokes to qualifying as a top-level coach, our coaching team can help you achieve your goals - and make sure you enjoy yourself reaching them.

Join us on one of our huge range of courses and holidays and get focused on a new sport.

www.pyb.co.uk Plas y Brenin The National Mountain Sports Centre Capel Curig Conwy LL24 OET Tel: 01690 720214 Email: info@pyb.co.uk www.plus.google.com/+plasybrenin

www.facebook.com/plasybrenin

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Adventure Sports I Momentum

Bio: Fran Brown

>> Written By: Fran Brown, World para climbing champion

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grew up in Cornwall and learnt to climb indoors though my secondary school. My climbing instructor also introduced me to outdoor climbing, of which Cornwall has some of the most dramatic in the UK. I spent many of my formative years climbing on the sea cliffs of the Cornish coast and bouldering on the granite outcrops of Dartmoor. I took part in a couple of indoor competitions as a teenager, but I never took it that seriously due to being more interested in outdoor climbing. After a move of Cardiff for university, I found myself in London for work, quite a way from any real rock of any standard but with an abundance of excellent climbing walls.

An industrial accident in 2006 left me with a spinal cord injury, meaning that I am a C4 incomplete tetraplegic.

I am a wheelchair user and have impairments in all four limbs including my hands.

This makes climbing pretty challenging. Following my injury I knew immediately that I wanted to get back to climbing. With support from my friends and a lot of time in the gym I managed start climbing indoors again in 2010.

In 2011 I noticed an advert in a climbing magazine for the national para climbing

finals but I had missed the competition by a week, irritating to say the least, however this spurred me to enter the 2012 para climbing series and to train for it. The 2012 series went well and I won all three rounds of the series becoming British Champion. This qualified me for the World Championships in September 2012 so I found a coach and started a proper training program.

I am a insanely determined person which is both a blessing and a curse and meant that although I found applying myself to training for the worlds easy It also meant I did over train somewhat. I went to the World Championships with no expectations, having no experience of international competitions or the other competitors. Although it was a stressful experience, being my first international competition, things turned out well and, much to my surprise, I won.

This was the start of what has been a whirlwind two years of World Cup wins, a lot of training and, most recently, successfully defending my World Championship Title in Gijón, Spain.

I now train 20-40 hours a week depending on the time of year, and in the summer I am a full time athlete. In the winter I am currently at university studying

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physiotherapy, which I juggle with the demands of climbing.

Climbing has undoubtedly improved my mobility and independence further than any physiotherapy I received in hospital. I’ve managed to rediscover outdoor climbing, an achievement of which I am particularly proud. Outdoor climbing is not without its challenges these days, access for one can be a big pain particularly with my wheelchair, but it is possible.

Despite being at the pinnacle

of my sport for two and a half years I am still trying to push the boundaries of what is physically possible and hope to do so for a good while yet.

I would like to say a special thank you to my sponsors for all their support, they are: The Arch Climbing Wall Scarpa Blurr Clothing

www.franbrown.org.uk

Adventure Sports I Momentum FOR THE MOST EXTREME CONDITIONS IN THE WORLD

T

raditionally down is felt to have one drawback: that it loses much of its insulating qualities when wet. Down offers unparalleled warmth for weight, compressibility and longevity, but when down gets soaked its expansive air-trapping structure temporarily collapses.

We guard against this by protecting our down beneath very tight weave and coated fabrics treated with robust DWR finishes, but for a while now we’ve been working on protecting the down itself.

Rab® started making down products 30 years ago and over that time we have cemented our position at the pinnacle of down product design and manufacturing.

The hydrophobic treatment gives increased performance for people pushing gear to the limit in the most extreme conditions in the world.

ABSORBS LESS WATER DRIES FASTER RETAINS LOFT FLUOROCARBON FREE NIKWAX TREATED DOWN

RAB.UK.COM

We worked closely with Nikwax, with decades of experience in proofing technologies to develop unique treatments that make our down fully water-resistant. Our Hydrophobic Down treatment now ensures that our down absorbs substantially less water, so retaining more loft and warmth. It also speeds up drying times when damp and will withstand repeated washing.

Our Hydrophobic Down treatment is unique to Rab and fluorocarbonfree and we believe it gives significant advantages to anyone active outdoors who chooses the performance of down and needs it to continue to work in mixed and damp conditions.

The Microlight Alpine is a great example of a Rab down product that is perfect for use on the mountain and as a jacket for everyday use through a normal British Winter, it provides just the right levels of warmth whilst being light and compact enough to put a waterproof shell over the top when required.

Available for men and women, RRP £180

Blackland Farm Activity Centre Your outdoor adventure starts here!

W

e have a great range of challenging activities for all ages from 7 years upwards. If you have a head for heights, try our climbing wall, abseiling tower, Leap of Faith or zip wire.

Or keep your feet on the ground with an archery session – we have three outdoor ranges and one easyaccess indoor range.

For building and bonding, communicating and trusting, the night line, teambuilding and crate challenge are excellent opportunities for the instructor to lead your group towards working together and helping support each other.

Then if you wish to stay and have a picnic or wander the woods we have 120 acres of woods and fields in this beautiful part of the West Sussex countryside close to the Ashdown Forest and the Bluebell steam railway.

Ring 01342 810493 to book, or www.blacklandfarm.org.uk for further information Blackland Farm Grinstead Lane East Grinstead West Sussex, RH19 4HP Tel: 01342 810493 Email: blackland@girlguiding.org.uk

Follow Us: @Momentum_Mag I Momentum I 19

LimbPower I Momentum

From behind the lens to front and centre, Ricky Cahill talks about his adventures in sport.

R

icky is a right below-knee amputee as the result of an accident 30 years ago, and has always had a love of photography, pursuing it as a hobby on and off throughout his life. At one stage he was carrying out a lot of sports and action photography, ranging from football to medieval re-enactments, but complex surgery on his remaining leg put paid to further activity for quite some time.

When Ricky slowly recovered and began to get back to his active lifestyle of mountain biking and photography, he saw a poster for the LimbPower Games (formerly the Amputee Games) and was interested in the opportunity to photograph disability sport. Ricky has always given his photos away rather than making a commercial business of it, and thought that he might be able to add an extra dimension to the event for the

participants. Of that first encounter Ricky says; “Strange thing I didn’t even think of actually going myself to take part, no idea why. I can only think as I was doing a lot of mountain biking at the time I thought I’d got my sport and didn’t need to try others”.

When Ricky attended that first LimbPower Games back in 2008 he was blown away by it. He had never before been to the Stoke Mandeville Stadium and felt immediately at home both from the feeling of the place and the atmosphere created by the people there taking part.

He commented; “The thing I loved at the time, and still do, is the whole feeling of the people discovering what they can do.

So many get locked into the idea of never being able to do a sport again, or even start if they’ve never tried. Seeing that look come over them as the realisation of ‘oh wow I can do this’ is just amazing”.

It was while at the LimbPower Games as a photographer that Ricky first came across Wheelchair Basketball, a sport that he still loves and is a fantastic ambassador for.

He keeps his basketball wheelchair in the back of his car and whenever he is at the limb centre for a ‘tune-up’ he always takes the opportunity to encourage others to try it out and enthuse them to try the sport.

In fact it is this infectious enthusiasm and desire to help others to try new sports and activities that defines Ricky. He genuinely loves helping others to get fit and spends time trying out anything that he can in his local area, so that he can talk about it first hand when meeting people. In addition to his mountain biking and wheelchair basketball Ricky has tried Boccia, table tennis, sitting volleyball, tennis, hockey, rugby and rowing.

Kiera Roche, Founder and Chairman of LimbPower says; “We were thrilled when Ricky first got in touch with us to offer his services as a photographer for the Games.

His images have helped us enormously in encouraging people to take part, and he is such a fantastic role model and has become a great friend to the charity”. It seems fair to say that Ricky is just as good in front of the camera as he is behind it!

>>Find our more about LimbPower: Website: www.limbpower.com Twitter: @LimbPower

20 I Momentum I www.momentummagazine.co.uk

Pace Rehabilitation I Momentum

Amputee’s Triumphant Triathlon Debut

A

bove-the-knee amputee and fanatical mountain biker Glenn Johnstone (46), from Stanley, can regularly be seen negotiating exhausting cycle routes around the hills of his native County Durham.

Never one to shy away from attempting a jump or pedalling headlong down a mountain side, Glenn recently swapped his beloved mountain bike for a wetsuit and lycra, to participate in his first ever triathlon. As he recalls, “I have to admit that as an amputee, the thought of swimming, cycling and then running didn’t sound that enticing, but I’m always up for a challenge!”

In preparation of competing in the Dorney Lake Tri Festival in Buckinghamshire, Glenn took to the pool to increase his fitness and practice his technique. With literally thousands of cycling miles under his belt, he wasn’t fazed about the ride element, but was nervous about the run.

As he explains, “I’m lucky to be supported

by Pace Rehabilitation in Cheadle, who provide me with a bespoke cycling prosthesis. However, for the run I was going to have to use my everyday walking leg, which simply isn’t designed or set up for jogging on!”

Despite his apprehension, Glenn’s determination saw him through and he successfully completed the course, but recounts it wasn’t without discomfort, “My residual limb was really sore from the run.

Well, it was more of a walk and skip really!

But I was elated by the reception I received as I crossed the finish line.”

After being bitten by the triathlon bug, Glenn is keen to do more, as he explains, “Pace have been working with a charity called The ArcticONE Foundation, who do an incredible job of fundraising to provide sports equipment to disabled people and have supported a few other amputees.” He continued, “They sorted out my entry and even lent me a road bike for the triathlon.”

Chesham (Bucks) based ArcticONE founder Matt Kirby explains, “Glenn is an inspiration. Having participated in two of our events, both times travelling down from Newcastle to the south of England, he’s created a bit of a fan base amongst our members”. He continued, “We’re currently raising money to fund a running blade prosthesis for him from Pace, which should really help him out.”

Glenn is very appreciative of the charity’s support, saying, “It’s awesome that ArcticONE are supporting me. Having a blade will make the world of difference and Pace have recently opened a clinic in Newcastle, which is really convenient for me. I can’t wait to try one out.”

Glenn plans to train hard through the winter and compete in more events throughout next year, under the guidance of ArcticONE. To enquire about a trial of a Bartlett Tendon, or other sophisticated prosthetic devices, such as Genium, BiOM, Rheo III, contact Scott Richardson or telephone Pace on 0845 450 7357.

Follow Us: @Momentum_Mag I Momentum I 21

Live On The Edge™ • www.live-on-the-edge.com • info@live-on-the-edge.com • 0131 344 4730

The Art of

Foam Rolling Foam rollers can be found throughout gyms, physiotherapy and chiropractic clinics as well on the sidelines of professional sports teams.

But what benefits are there for anyone suffering from aches, pains and sore muscles?

Injuries, repetitive motions and transference pain with a disability or not, can degrade your muscles and fascia, (the connective tissue that surrounds and supports your muscles) leading to localised areas of tenderness, called Trigger Points.

These Trigger points can restrict the range of motion of the muscle and can refer pain to other locations, ie. headaches. If left untreated, they can lead to scar tissue formation and transferal pain. For that reason, measures need to be taken to maintain and develop greater range of movement and more efficient biomechanics to help you deal not only with day to day life, but with sporting performance.

Foam rolling and Myofascial Compression techniques works by applying pressure to these trigger points, which creates Ischemic pressure that in turn releases the tension (myofascial release) in the muscle, allowing the pain to abate.

By using your own body weight and TriggerPoint products you can start to “Learn More and Move Better”.

Using TriggerPoint products can allow you to: • Perform a self-massage (myofascial release) • Break down soft tissue adhesions and scar tissue, making your muscles more pliable and functional • Break up trigger points • Increase flexibility • Minimize soreness and help your muscles feel relaxed • Increase blood flow and circulation to the soft tissues Please note: it is recommended to seek advice from your doctor/physio before applying techniques to post trauma injuries or around the injury site.

How to Roll Pre-Gen

Re-Gen

Foam Rolling can serve as an important component of a dynamic warm up by preparing the tissues for the upcoming demand and unlocking areas which restrict movement by: • Increasing tissue tolerance • Optimizing length tension relationship between muscles and fascia • More efficient movement • Increasing force output • Decreasing heart rate

IT Band

Restore the IT Band to re-introduce lost motion.

Set Up Side plank, top foot planted in front of extended leg.

Place GRID beneath extended leg just above knee.

Shift weight onto GRID and turn toes inward.

Zones:

1

Rolls Forward/Back

Thoracic Spine Maximise spinal rotation.

Set Up Lie on back, place GRID just above lumbar curve.

Place feet flat on floot. Craddle head in hands or cross hands on chest

Zones:

2

Programming

4

Foam rolling after a workout can serve as an effective cool down as it: • Flushes tissues to reduce time of DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) • Creating Pliability

1

2

Programming

4

Knee Bends

4

Rolls Forward/Back

4

Cross Frictions

Courageous, strong,

POWERFUL Everything is possible!

Live On The Edge Edge™ • www.live-on-the-edge.com • info@live-on-the-edge.com • 0131 344 4730 • Mike Morgan - 07973 802 986 - South West

• Richard Morris - 07778 159 180 - South East

• Alistair Crawford - 07711 131 617 - Scotland

• Brian Hutchinson - 07595 543 835 - Ireland

• Steve Lee - 07515 905 525 - North West / Eastern Counties • Daniel Hume - 07960 013 475 - North East /Midlands

Sports Rehabilitation I Momentum

Lee Audis:

A remarkable recovery

L

ee Audis was 23 and playing professional rugby when a road traffic accident left him with life threatening brain injuries, unable even to breath without assistance. Today, he is able to live an active life again and is even coaching rugby, following a remarkable recovery that was supported by a multi-disciplinary team of clinicians at the Huntercombe Group’s Frenchay Brain Injury Rehabilitation Centre, the unwavering support of his family and his own determination.

The story of Lee’s journey of recovery has now been told in a video that is available to view at http://huntercombe. com/news-media/i-events/letswatch/remarkable-recovery Lee has no memory of his accident. He was in intensive care at Leeds General Infirmary and unconscious for 12 days.

After two months in hospital, he was transferred to the Huntercombe Group’s Frenchay Brain Injury Rehabilitation Centre. When he arrived there in January 2012, he was in a minimally conscious state. He

could not control voluntary movements, was prone to involuntary muscle spasm and some of his muscles had contracted. He was unable to communicate or follow movement with his eyes.

He received nutrition and hydration via a naso-gastric tube. Lee recalls: ”It was like being born again. I had to relearn everything.”

The multi-disciplinary team who contributed to Lee’s recovery and rehabilitation: Dr Angus Graham, Consultant in Rehabilitation Medicine, commented: “Lee’s remarkable recovery shows what can sometimes be achieved against all apparent odds.”

Dr. Graham helped to manage Lee’s muscle spasms and pain through medication, so enabling him to be assisted in learning to take control of his body. Che Ming Leung, Speech and Language Therapist, encouraged Lee initially to drink through a straw, progressing to a normal diet within a month. She worked with him to improve eye contact and voice control and to regain his language functionality.

Once Lee’s spasticity was under better control through medication, Clare Belmont, Lead Physiotherapist, worked on exercises to improve his ability to control the movement of his body and limbs. Seven months of hard work, in

24 I Momentum I www.momentummagazine.co.uk

which Lee demonstrated his absolute commitment, took him from being unable to sit in a wheelchair unless he was strapped in for support, to the emotional day when he walked again.

to help him achieve goals; finding ways to use strengths to compensate for weaknesses and encouraging him to focus on what he could potentially get back, rather than what he had lost.

As he gained better control of his movements, Abi Doxford, Occupational Therapist, began to work on his co-ordination and re-learning of everyday activities such as making a cup of tea and being able to wash and dress without help. Alana Tooze, Psychologist, worked with Lee to devise strategies

Testimony to Lee’s remarkable journey is that earlier this year completed the Bath Half Marathon, along with members of the clinical team. He donated his sponsorship money to buy equipment to benefit other patients at the Frenchay Brain Injury Rehabilitation Centre.

Dynamic Tape I Momentum

1. Rigid Athletic Tape - this is the traditional sports tape and the one with which most people are familiar. It is strong, rigid and is generally placed on a joint to provide restriction of movement e.g. a sprained ankle can be locked in position to restrict motion that places strain on the damaged ligament. The effect is greatly diminished with exercise.

More now than ever, tape, in various forms and colours is seen on professional athletes, but how does it work?

Is it just as beneficial for the amateur athlete or the weekend warrior?

Technology of tape has evolved as new materials become available and research emerges shedding light on common injuries and recently contradicting traditional beliefs about the effect of taping.

Broadly speaking there are three categories of therapeutic taping used to rehabilitate or prevent injury, modify technique or improve performance.

2. Kinesiology Tapes - Kinesiology tapes are designed to have an elasticity and thickness similar to the skin. They only stretch longitudinally, 140 - 180% depending on the brand before reaching a rigid endpoint. They have gentle elastic recoil.

The action is based on a neurophysiological approach. The tape is generally applied with the muscle in its lengthened position. This is thought to lift the outer layers of the skin to create space and reduce tissue pressure aiming to improve circulation, take pressure off pain sensitive structures and enhance feedback to the body to help muscle activation or inhibition. The research lends support primarily for short term pain relief but is yet to substantiate the other proposed mechanisms.

3. Dynamic Tape - designed by Ryan Kendrick, an Australian Musculoskeletal

Physiotherapist who was part of the team responsible for the resurrection of Greg Rusesdki’s career. Ryan also spent several years with the Essex County Cricket Club.

Tissues don’t fail because of pain, they fail because of load. Aware that many of the conditions were a result of overuse or more correctly overload, Ryan recognised that current taping products were ineffective at absorbing load or contributing energy to reduce the workload of the musculotendinous unit. They were also ineffective at modifying the biomechanics whilst still permitting the full range of motion necessary to perform the complex skills required in sports. PosturePals had been developed for the same reason.

Dynamic Tape is highly elastic and stretches in all directions, over 200% longitudinally.

It has strong recoil and is applied with the muscle or joint in the shortened position (opposite to kinesiology tapes). Working like a ‘ bungee’ this strong mechanical effect manages load to help weak, injured or overloaded muscles and modifies movement patterns while still allowing the athlete to perform complex activities. Preliminary research supports this.

The Biomechanical Tape

+ STRONG 4 Way STRETCH The Biomechanical approach afforded by the Dynamic Tape has been quickly adopted in Australia, UK and beyond due to its ability to directly manage load and modify movement patterns with preliminary research now supporting this.

s Yo u Spring

s

G

ive

• Absorb load • Modify technique • Modify work of muscle

• Reduce fatigue • Decrease pain • Improve performance

Phone: 08448 730 036 Website: www.dynamictape.co.uk Follow Us: @Momentum_Mag I Momentum I 25

Kinesio UK I Momentum

As a senior physiotherapist working across huge international events, Penny must keep up to speed on all new treatments. If her clients are not showing improvement within three sessions, she explores other options. Her speciality is biomechanics – assessing why people move the way they do and rehabilitating them correctly.

>> Penny treating patients at The Invictus Games

In 2006, Penny participated in one of the first ever UK Kinesio Taping courses taken by the founder of Kinesio, Dr Kenzo Kase himself. Kinesio Tape has been in her kit bag ever since.

Stick it where it hurts!

>> Penny Macutkiewicz, Chief Physiotherapist at the Invictus Games discusses the healing power of Kinesio with Momentum Magazine

M

ost people in the UK with even the slightest interest in sport can’t have helped noticing how many athletes now wear the supportive pink, black or blue stripes of Kinesio Taping.

Over 2014 Kinesio Tape was seen all over the World Cup, the Commonwealth Games and the Invictus Games.

Penny Macutkiewicz is a fully qualified Kinesio practitioner and instructor. She is also Bsc (Hons) Physiotherapy MCSP and has been professionally involved in elite sport since 2002. She regularly travels the world to support the Great Britain Team in numerous sports and has worked as a senior physiotherapist at the Summer and Winter Paralympics.

>> Kinesio being applied to leg

In 2014, Penny was Chief Physiotherapist at the Invictus Games and Lead Physiotherapist for the British Para Triathlon Championship.

When Penny isn’t working all over the world she runs The Performance Clinic at the University of Sunderland and at the University of Northumbria in Newcastle.

It’s well known by regional athletes but Penny treats clients from all different backgrounds, ages and abilities. One of her proudest moments was rehabilitating a client after a hip replacement so he could dance with his daughter at her wedding.

She says: “I have helped athletes reach their potential and win medals at the Olympics and Paralympics, but on a day to day basis the best thing is being able to help people return to their favourite activities. We are often the “go to” clinic when they have tried everywhere else.”

Three-time Gold Medallist Paralympic Stephen Miller was born with Cerebral Palsy and had a hip replacement after the 2012 London Paralympic Games. Penny worked with him on rehabilitation, focussing on pain relief and movement patterns and then rapidly introduced him to Pilates and strength training. Stephen is now in training for the 2016 Rio Paralympics.

26 I Momentum I www.momentummagazine.co.uk

Penny says: “Kinesio Tape totally changed the way I manage my athletes’ injuries. I use it through all recovery stages of an injury and will often apply it to parts of the body that aren’t injured in order to offload weight from the site of the injury, or improve posture and biomechanical movements.”

Kinesio was used extensively by Penny at the Invictus Games, particularly on swimmers or para triathletes with shoulder pain because Kinesio is highly waterproof and stays on much longer than other tapes.

She also applied it to cyclists’ knees for pain relief and support; on basketball players for rib and shoulder pain and in runners for Achilles and calf pain.

Penny says her Paralympic athletes are by far the toughest group of people she’s ever worked with.

“Muscular and tendon injuries are very common in athletics, particularly with disabled athletes, as they tend to “power through” and ignore the pain, Sports injuries usually happen through overexertion, poor biomechanics, inadequate conditioning of the athlete, and lack of suitable warm up. I use Kinesio once an athlete is injured to aid with control of swelling and to improve muscle activity. I usually find that once the athlete is moving in the correct way with their pain wellmanaged, then recovery is much quicker.”

For more information on Kinesio Taping, please go to www.kinesiotaping.co.uk or call 0191 287 7008 For more information or to contact Penny Macutkiewicz please go to www.theperformanceclinic.co.uk or call 0191 5152009

-

SUPPORTS MUSCLES IN MOVEMENT SUITABLE FOR 2 TO 3 DAY WEAR 100% LATEX FREE WATER RESISTANT DOES NOT LIMIT RANGE OF MOTION LIGHTWEIGHT BREATHABLE

Kinesio Taping ... for when the going gets tough

Available at sainsburys.co.uk Subject to availability. Selected stores only.

Find us at Kinesio UK www.kinesioprecut.co.uk

DMO SPORT MOMENTUM HALF VERTICAL_Layout 1 08/10/2014 16:25 Pag

Sports Rehabilitation I Momentum The Demko Bed-System has been developed and used in spine and sport injury clinics. Its positive effects on health have been verified by numerous clinical tests and medical studies. The system has won many international awards and since 2006 has been extensively used as a registered medical device.

The Demko Bed-System is the perfect solution for preventing and treating of: • Acute and chronic locomotor complaints • Lumbago, sciatica, disc herniation and post-operative conditions • Vertebral and limb disorders • Joint pains, arthritis, osteoporosis, spinal injuries • Lower back and spinal pain The slat base adapts perfectly to the shape of the prone body and gives perfect, equal support to the spine along its full length.

The vertebral discs will take up the optimal position during sleep, thus decreasing the load strain and thereby ensuring that no harmful tension points develop.

The blood supply of the muscles surrounding the spine and the area around the joints will be perfect as well.

Please visit our website at www.demko.co.uk Call us on 0207 7003915 or email us at info@demko.co.uk PACE Advert Paralympic amends v2_Layout 1 01/11/2012 16:02 Page 1

www.pacerehab.com

CONVERTING PATIENTS INTO PEOPLE

Rehabilitation Services Prosthetics I Orthotics Physiotherapy I Counselling Occupational Therapy Immediate Needs Assessments Expert Witness Services

DMO Sport create bespoke Dynamic Movement Orthoses used for sports performance and rehabilitation.

Used by professional and competitive disabled and non-disabled athletes, our products aid neurological development, improve posture and increase proprioception.

Above the elbow amputee Jon-Allan Butterworth powering to glory

Back to life – inspiring National Referral Centre Tel: 0845 450 7357 Email: info@pacerehab.com

PACE Rehabilitation Clinics • 36 Brook Street, Cheadle, Cheshire, SK8 2BX • Unit 1, Anglo Business Park, Asheridge Road, Chesham, Bucks, HP5 2QA

28 I Momentum I www.momentummagazine.co.uk

Find out more at: www.dmorthotics.com enquiries@dmorthotics.com

Fireactiv I Momentum

ACHES, PAINS AND INJURIES?

W

hether we like to admit it or not, training regularly in a bid to keep fit and active can take its toll on one’s body which in turn leaves us exposed to picking up potential injuries, aches and pains that, despite our best efforts to cure them, just never seem to go away!

For some of us, that dull ache or dodgy joint has become a way of life, something that we put up with for a lack of a suitable alternative.

But what if we were to tell you that there could be a solution in the form of Fireactiv…….. a unique, natural and non-invasive thermal support technology that harnesses the power of heat, specifically our own body heat, to aid recovery and offer pain relief.

FIREACTIV is a new and revolutionary range of orthopaedic support products that also offer relief from muscle and joint pain including sport injuries, back pain, sprains and stiff muscles, injuries to deep tissue, arthritis pain, Reynaud’s disease, rheumatism, and tendinitis.

>> Fireactiv shoulder support

FIREACTIV’s joint and muscle supports use a revolutionary new textile which offers a combination of joint and muscle support and intense deep heat for pain relief. The supports may also be used without the detachable heat pads and are a safe and easy-to-use alternative to medication. No batteries, wires or microwaving are required.

>> HOW IT WORKS

Charlotte Wilkinson-Burnett

During the manufacture of our supports, special bio-ceramic heat reflective particles are fused into the fibres of the interchangeable pads. When placed against the skin, these ceramic particles radiate deep heat back into the body. This reflected heat is known as long wave infrared radiation.

Prior to my accident I had been heavily involved in most sports, competing the majority at county or regional level. I decided though to branch off to the sport that I was most passionate for, which turned out to be hockey. I ultimately ended up being selected for the England U21 squad, which was the pinnacle of my junior career. Sadly though, not long after this happened, I suffered an accident which ended my hockey career.

The long wave radiation also dilates blood vessels, thereby increasing blood and oxygen circulation. This in turn speeds up the healing process for any injuries present.

Not being one to let anything stop me, I applied for the UK Sport: Bring on Rio talent drive, in the hope of being selected so I could transfer my talents into a new sport, canoeing. For me, this turned out to be the best decision I had ever made. I had an email asking me to attend a talent day at Holme Pierpoint, Nottingham, and immediately fell in love with the sport. Gratefully, I later became a member of the GB confirmation squad

and have loved every minute up until now. I hope to be just as successful in this sport, as I was in my prior sporting career.

Fireactiv were so impressed with Charlotte’s talent and determination that they have provided some financial support to help her career progress. And of course Fireactiv products to help with recurring aches, pains and injuries.

www.fireactiv.com

Follow Us: @Momentum_Mag I Momentum I 29

Sports Rehabilitation I Momentum

High Protein Smoothie

The difference is in the taste 3:1 carbohydrate to protein ratio available in two sizes - 500ml and 250ml

4 delicious fresh flavours Cherry, Apple and Elderberry Blackcurrant, white tea and vanilla Pineapple, black tea and citrus zest Raspberry, black tea and grapefruit Facebook - nourishmenow Twitter - @nourish_me_now

www.nourishmenow.co.uk

More Rehab offer a high quality multidisciplinary therapy service to patients that require specialised neurological or respiratory care.

The specialised services we offer include: • Hands-On Therapy • Exercise Programmes • Hydrotherapy • Electrical Stimulation (Upper & Lower Limb) • Gymnasium Work • Splinting (Upper & Lower Limb) • FES Bike Assessments & Programmes • Carer Training • Amputee Rehab • Accommodation Assessments • Equipment & Aids Assessments including wheelchair & posture • Vocational Rehabilitation and much more, please contact us for more details.

We have clinics in South Yorkshire, Derbyshire and the surrounding areas.

We are happy to do visits to your home, school or work place.

Tel: 0114 2353150 Web: www.morerehab.com 30 I Momentum I www.momentummagazine.co.uk

Fish Insurance I Momentum

D

isabled athletes who rely on costly prosthetics to pursue their sporting ambitions can now protect them against accidental damage or loss following the launch of a pioneering new insurance policy.

In June disability specialist Fish Insurance unveiled the first policy in the UK which is designed specifically to protect artificial limbs. Its introduction follows growing technological advances in the field which this year saw the first fitting of a £70,000 computer programmable, Bluetooth controlled knee prosthesis. That device can switch between a range of modes including cycling, golfing and jogging.

Bespoke cover provided under the new policy could protect a prosthetic costing as much as that although, recognising that most disabled people won’t own such super-sophisticated devices, it will protect as standard artificial limbs valued at up to £55,000.

The policy, which offers annual premiums from £99, can also cover orthotic devices such as braces for the spine, upper and lower limbs, feet, knees and ankles.

Fish’s managing director John Garrard reports that the launch of the new policy was in direct response to enquiries received by the company’s staff from among the estimated 60,000

STARTING PISTOL FIRED ON NEW POLICY TO PROTECT SPORTS PROSTHETICS amputees in the UK. He added that it was likely to prove particularly popular with disabled sports men and women who frequently invest in specially designed prostheses in order to be able to compete or simply enjoy their chosen discipline.

“Whilst many prosthetics are fitted and remain owned by the NHS, many amputees choose to go private for a variety of reasons, from comfort through performance and to enable them to participate in sport.” he said.

“People will frequently seek to complement their NHS prosthetic by themselves purchasing a specialist limb designed for tackling specific activities such as climbing, running or swimming. These can represent a significant investment running into many thousands and even tens of thousands of pounds. That’s when they need benefit from effective insurance cover.”

It offers accidental damage and loss worldwide and for prosthetics less than two years old offers new-for-old settlements. It also includes £2m in third party liability insurance together with provision of hospital benefit and personal accident cover.

Introduction of the policy has been welcomed by Helen Dolphin, campaigns director at Disabled Motoring UK who had both her legs amputated above the knee following a late diagnosis of meningitis when she was 22.

“Insuring non-NHS prosthetics is in my opinion absolutely vital, and I speak from bitter experience” says Helen.

“A carer of mine once mistakenly thought she needed to remove a cover from a prosthetic liner and destroyed it. That mistake cost me £600, a big enough sum in itself, but for someone with a specially designed or microprocessor controlled limb the bill for replacement can run into many, many thousands of pounds.”

The launch of the policy is the latest in a series of pioneering moves by Fish which was founded in 1975 specifically to serve people with disabilities or mobility issues and now serves over 75,000 policyholders worldwide. The company broke new ground when it introduced Independent Living Insurance to assist people taking advantage of the government’s direct payments and personal budget schemes to employ their own care staff. This included 24 hour access to a specialist HR and employment law helpline to assist policyholders in meeting their new legal obligations as an employer. It also offers specialist disabled car, travel and home insurance alongside more traditional protection for mobility scooters and aids.

For more details visit: www.fishinsurance.co.uk or call 0500 432 141.

Follow Us: @Momentum_Mag I Momentum I 31

32 I Momentum I

Accessible Sports I Momentum

Are you a sports coach, teacher or an individual who works with disabled individuals, then take a look at www.sport4-all.co.uk to share lesson plans, ideas, videos and guest blogs.

All for FREE!

Follow Sport4-all: @sport4_all

For more information, get in touch via email: jake@sport4-all.co.uk

Shouldn’t everyone have the opportunity to ski?

CANDOCO YOUTH DANCE CLASSES Candoco, the leading contemporary dance company of disabled and non-disabled dancers, runs two weekly affordable dance classes for young people.

Classes are open to disabled and non-disabled young people aged 13 – 25. No previous experience required, just your interest and enthusiasm!

Mondays, 5:30pm – 7:30pm Trinity Laban, The Laban Building, Creekside, London SE8 3DZ & Tuesdays, 6-8pm The Place, 17 Flaxman Terrace, London WC1H 9AT

As the UK’s Skier’s and Boarder’s Charity, we believe that skiers & snowboarders, no matter what their disability, should be able to ski and ride alongside the able bodied as equals at all snowsports facilities and resorts.

Both classes run weekly during the academic school year.

Book your place:

hannah@candoco.co.uk / 020 7704 6845

@CandocoYD www.candoco.co.uk/youth

34 I Momentum I www.momentummagazine.co.uk

To get involved and find out more call us on 01479 861 272 or go to www.disabilitysnowsport.org.uk For people looking to book a lesson, Use discount code DSUK5 to get £5 off a lesson. Promotion ends 15th Feb 2015 and one per customer.

Sport England I Momentum

Sport England invests a further £2.1million to get more disabled people playing sport

S

port England has provided a further boost to disability sport by awarding £2.1 million of National Lottery funding to help increase the number of disabled people playing sport.

Sport England will be directly funding seven national disability sports organisations (NDSOs), between October 2014 and 2017, to advise, support and guide other sports bodies as they create opportunities for disabled people to take part in sport. The funding will provide impairment-specific support to National Governing Bodies (NGBs) and deliver engagement programmes.

The seven disability sports organisations to benefit from the investment are: • British Blind Sport • Cerebral Palsy Sport • Dwarf Sport Association UK • LimbPower • English Learning Disability Sports Alliance • WheelPower • UK Deaf Sport

The investment over three years will work to strengthen the delivery of sport for disabled people, engagement and partnership creation with the purpose of educating and supporting specific groups, and working with NGBs and other organisations.

In addition, the English Federation of Disability Sport (EFDS) has been awarded a further one year investment of £204,153 of National Lottery funding to provide support in both marketing and communications and research and insight.

Currently, non-disabled people are twice as likely to play sport as disabled people (39.2 per cent play compared to 17.8 per cent) and as a result, Sport England is continuing to focus its attention and investment in this area to address the imbalance.

Sport England Chairman, Nick Bitel, said: “The number of disabled people playing sport increased over the last investment period, however, there is still an imbalance that we are keen to rectify.

disabled and non-disabled people, meaning that disabled people who want to play sport can have as much opportunity as possible to do so.”

Chief Executive of WheelPower, Martin McElhatton, said: “This significant investment from Sport England will enable NDSO’s like WheelPower to further develop sport and physical activity for disabled people in partnership with National Governing Bodies of Sport and the wider sector over the next three years. It will provide us with the opportunity to grow the number of opportunities for disabled people to take part in sport across a wider network of organisations and help make sport more inclusive for disabled people in the future.”

For more information on Sport England please visit: www.sportengland.org or tweet @sport_england or visit our Facebook page – www.facebook.com/ sportengland

“This investment is designed for these bodies to align closely with NGBs and integrate the sport on offer to both

Follow Us: @Momentum_Mag I Momentum I 35

dmin@ ch.uk

Valence School which offers top sporting facilities and an academic education to children and young people aged 4 to 19 with physical disabilities and complex medical needs from all over the South East, is a Specialist Sports College in Westerham Kent, and is the only State School of its kind in the UK. Our Mission Statement is simple Student’s views and rights are central to the ethos of Valence School Our mission is to provide a learning community where there is quality education including sporting facilities, care, access and therapy in order to promote each student’s intellectual, physical, social, emotional and spiritual development.

Our work is about enabling children and young people who have special physical, medical and sensory needs to develop the knowledge, skills and understanding together with the confidence, self-esteem and self-dependence necessary for them to participate in and contribute to society in the way each chooses.

www.valenceschool.com General Enquiries:

eb row n @ v alence.kent .sch. u k Sport Enquiries to Jo Eames - Director of Sport

sportscollegeadmin@valence.kent.sch.uk

Accessible Sports I Momentum

Alan March Sport Ltd Make Sport Accessible

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e featured in the first issue of this great magazine with an introduction to our company and some of the work we undertake. The last few months have simply been a blur.

As a company we’ve been commentating and announcing at the National Paralympic Day, the Invictus Games and before that we had an amazing experience at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Our trip to Scotland was particularly special as we took a team of 18 and headed north of the border to deliver a very special role. The organising committee of the games had accepted our bid to be the providers of Audio Description across the 16 sports on display, also for the Opening and Closing ceremonies.

Providing structured commentary for visually impaired spectators at sporting events is something we specialise in and care about greatly, so when we were given

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We would love to see more sporting events and venues take notice of what the CG14 organising committee and Alan March Sport achieved during the summer.

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this magnificent opportunity to allow those with sight loss to access the games fully, we stepped up to the plate.

We would love to see more sporting events and venues

take notice of what the CG14 organising committee and Alan March Sport achieved during the summer.

A great team effort lead to an enhanced spectator experience for a section of the disabled community that are often left to fend for themselves, putting up with TV commentary that is inadequate for their needs or at best, a brief highlight package of their favored sport.

Athletics was frantic with so much going on at once, the atmosphere inside the aquatic centre amazing, whilst our audio describers excelled themselves with their research and desire, commentating on Gymnastics, Para-Powerlifting, Wrestling and some other sports that perhaps before the Commonwealth Games they weren’t experts in.

12-16 hour days, pouring rain and even sunstroke (hockey) weren’t enough to deter the Alan March Sport team and all with one target, providing those visually impaired spectators with the best possible commentary, live, at their chosen sport.

British Athletics: Free Para Athletics Introduction Days

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ritish Athletics are promoting a series of FREE Para Athletics Introduction Days for aspiring disabled athletes to train with specialist coaches across the Paralympic athletics events – sprints, ambulant throws, seated throws and wheelchair racing.

If you enjoy sport and want to try something new, have met one of the Parallel Success team at an event, or joined an athletics club already these events are for you!

The Introduction Days are 10am: 3pm, free to attend and staged at indoor athletics tracks.

• Aged 11+, children and adults • Sporty background – enjoy P.E, athletics, sport or working out • Paralympic impairment groups including: - Visually Impaired and Blind - Cerebral Palsy inc Stroke & Trauma - Spinal Injuries - Amputee inc Dysmelia & Talipes - Dwarfism - Learning Disability

DATE / VENUE / CONTACT: • Sunday 19th October / Loughborough / Job • Sunday 23rd November / Manchester / Shelley • Sunday 25th January / Sheffield / Shelley • Sunday 8th February / Loughborough / Job • Sunday 8th March / BATH / Job • Sunday 29th March / North London / Job EVENTS Athletes need to register in advance for the Introduction Days, stating which Introduction Day and event(s) they are interested in: Job King (Midlands & South) jking@britishathletics.org.uk 07841504311 Shelley Holroyd (North & East) sholroyd@britishathletics.org.uk 07912070625 www.englandathletics.org

Ltd

Most accessible games ever?

We hope we did our bit.

Where can Audio Description go next? Why is the red-button on our TV’s so underused?

Why not an Audio Description alternative at all live sport on the Red button? Lots of questions, but why not?

The amazing Wembley Stadium, where we have been based for 7 years, provides Audio Description commentary by trained commentators (that would be us) for all sporting events, so try asking your local club, no matter what sport, what their provision is. We’re sure we can help…

Call: 07834523729 or Click Alanmarchsport.com

Our Services Include: • Sports Presentation

• Sports Commentators

• Commentary Training

• Event Hosts

• AD Commentary Specialists & Providers

• Announcers

Follow on Twitter: @Alanmarchsport Follow Us: @Momentum_Mag I Momentum I 37

Blind Football I Momentum

A day in the life: Will Norman

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The opposition striker is attacking.

He’s got serious wheels. A drop of the shoulder and he’s through.

I know from the nervous squeaks of the crowd that something very bad is about to happen

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Paralympics. This is the beauty of disability sport - the route to the top can be relatively short, and as a result, opportunities abound.

Which isn’t to say it’s easy. To get to the top of the mountain quickly, you have to take the steep path.

It’s time for kick-off. There’s a burst of encouragement from our manager, a breath, another breath, the referee’s whistle, and we’re off. I try and envision the game as the action unfolds in front of me, willing my brain to conjure the images evoked by the sounds I am hearing. My goalkeeper, coaches, team-mates, the ball, and the opposition, all feed sound in to the mix.

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t’s 6am, and I’m urinating in to a test tube... again.

Sometimes, for a doping test, I’ll even do this in front of a stranger, but in this instance it’s match day, and the first job of the day is a hydration test. Then it’s breakfast, pre-match prep – which involves Al Pacino and the liberal application of hair product, and off to the stadium.

In the stadium, time slows. You don’t so much hear the roar as feel it. It’s a visceral connection between the team and the crowd. If you’re the right kind of big game animal, this is where you come alive.

You feel at home here, even at peace. As you stand for the anthems, pride courses through you like a wild fire.

Blind football is 5-a-side. The 4 outfield players are visually impaired, and the goalkeepers are sighted. The ball rattles, and The pitch has boards running down either side which help with echo location by reflecting sound back on to the pitch.

I didn’t kick a blind football until I was 28. I thought my chance of an international sporting career had gone, until a serendipitous encounter with a disability sport lecturer at the University of Worcester changed all that. Nine months after I first tried the sport, I was at my first

38 I Momentum I www.momentummagazine.co.uk

The opposition striker is attacking. He’s got serious wheels. A drop of the shoulder and he’s through. I know from the nervous squeaks of the crowd that something very bad is about to happen. He shoots, but Our keeper gets a hand to it, palming it out in to the area.

So this is blind football, but how did the game end? Well that’s up to you. The game is out there, and the ball is loose in the penalty area. You may well have a part to play in how this game unfolds in the future, either as a player, a coach, or, most crucially of all, as an empowering force in someone else’s life that gives them the confidence to grasp their opportunity when it comes.

For further information about blind football, please contact the FA’s National Football Development Manager, Jeff Davis, Jeff.Davis@TheFA.com For more information on disability sport at the University of Worcester, visit www.worc.ac.uk

FA I Momentum

>> Pictured is England Powerchair Head Coach Colin Gordon (left) with David Clarke (middle) and the Powerchair team at Wembley Stadium.

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FA put Disability Football in the Spotlight

isability football was in the spotlight at Wembley Stadium when the England Powerchair team were presented with their international caps during the half-time break of England’s 5-0 victory over San Marino on 9 October.

“This vital support has been provided both at an elite level across various disability squads and at a development level where the pathways now exist for disability footballers to navigate the same route through the game as their able bodied counterparts.

The squad were joined by England football disability legend David Clarke who presented the Powerchair players with their representative caps pitch side - Clarke made his name by scoring 128 goals in 144 appearances for the England and Great Britain Blind squads and carried the Paralympic torch at the opening ceremony of London 2012.

“I have known the sport without the support of The FA and I have also witnessed the growing influence our national governing body has had across disability football and the position disabled footballers find themselves in today demonstrates tremendous progress and is a far cry from that faced at the outset of my career.

The FA has had a longstanding commitment to supporting disability football with a programme that supports the Powerchair team plus five other squads - Blind, Cerebral Palsy, Partially Sighted, Men’s Deaf Futsal and Women’s Deaf Futsal.

“For this reason, the FA deserves considerable credit for driving this initiative and really changing the landscape of football for ever.”

Four years ago saw The FA bring the Blind Football World Championship to Hereford, where England finished fourth, and next summer will see the Cerebral Palsy World Cup hosted at the country’s national football centre, St. George’s Park.

David Clarke spent 16 years in disability sport and experienced Blind Football before and after FA funding: “Ever since 2000, when The FA first recognised the importance of its role in promoting, nurturing and widening the participation in disability football, its involvement and commitment to growing this underdeveloped area of the game has increased year on year in terms of financial, strategic, coaching and sport science support,” said Clarke who was also capped for Great Britain at the Beijing Paralympics in 2008.

While Clarke is a veteran of The FA’s football disability programme, the Powerchair team are new to the setup having come on board after receiving a £50,000 FA grant to enter the 2011 World Championship in Paris where the squad finished as runners up to USA. This summer saw England, managed

by Colin Gordon, add to their growing reputation on the international Powerchair football scene when they came second to France at the Nations Cup in Ireland.

Held in Limerick, England finished ahead of Denmark, Ireland and Switzerland and beat Belgium 5-1 in the Semi-Finals.

The FA’s disability football programme is headed up by Jeff Davis: “We invest £1m a year into disability football to support our six squads which means regular tournament football across the world and

opportunities to train at St. George’s Park alongside our mainstream teams like Roy Hodgson’s senior side and the England Under-21s.”

Powerchair Football has already been turned down once by the IPC for the Paralympics but Davis is hopeful that it will follow in the footsteps of the Cerebral Palsy and Blind Football and eventually be included: “We assisted on the bid by the Wheelchair FA to get Powerchair Football in the Paralympics for Tokyo 2020 but they lost out to badminton and triathlon which was are both Olympic disciplines of course.

“Technology is a bit of a sticking point with the IPC as the rules state that you can’t have mechanical or motorised equipment at the Paralympics. Our argument is that the Powerchair has no bearing on the result as it’s down to the player’s skill level to pass, block, shoot and actually play the game.”

Davis is pleased with the way that Powerchair football has been progressing as a sport domestically: “We have two national leagues with twelve teams in each plus there’s a regional setup below that so you’re looking at 1,000 players across the country which is a fantastic participation figure.

“It all means that we could be in a position to bid for the Powerchair World Cup in 2019 which would be another positive for the sport in this country.

“It’s great that we can use Wembley Stadium as a backdrop to say well done to our disability squads, hopefully it can inspire others to get involved for the future.”

Follow Us: @Momentum_Mag I Momentum I 39

Football I Momentum The CP Kickstart programme’s main objective is to build partnerships with local providers to ensure that sustainable follow-on sessions are in place after the event has taken place. CP Sport will continue to support all hubs of activity, lending our expertise and knowledge to ensure the long term sustainability and success of the local sessions.

Though the success of our CP Football Kickstart programme, CP Sport have worked in partnership with the Football Association to develop CP Frame Football Activity, supporting participants who use frames to support their mobility.

Cerebral Palsy Sport:

National Football Programme football opportunities to create a fairer game for players with a physical disability, either as an additional playing opportunity or alternative to pan-disability football.

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f you have cerebral palsy and love to play football, come and join Cerebral Palsy Sport at one of our CP Football Kickstart events or regular CP specific opportunities in your local area.

Cerebral Palsy (CP) Sport is the country’s leading national disability sports organisation supporting people with cerebral palsy to reach their sporting potential.

Since the introduction of the FA’s Ability Counts programme to develop disability football, there has been a large amount of growth in opportunities for people with a disability. Supporting the FA, CP Sport have identified that there have been a large number of people with a physical disability who have maybe not taken up these opportunities or found that a pan-disability session wasn’t right for them.

Therefore, through our national football development programme, we aim to develop cerebral palsy impairment specific

The CP Sport football programme delivers its objectives through two different types of activities; CP Football Kickstart events and CP Football Kick-Offs.

CP Kickstarts The CP Kickstart programme has been introduced to develop new hubs of sustainable CP specific grassroots football across the country, providing regular impairment specific football sessions on a local level. Working with County FAs, County Sports Partnerships, disability organisations, professional football clubs, Charter Standard football clubs and local charities and authorities, we offer a programme engaging players from the local community.

In partnership with local organisations, CP Sport deliver a two to three hour event that gives players the opportunity to participate in impairment specific football activity which caters for their individual needs. Delivering events in partnership with local organisations, CP Sport coaches mentor local coaches in how to support people with a physical disability in football to be more confident when delivering the ongoing opportunities.

40 I Momentum I www.momentummagazine.co.uk

James Watkins from the FA said, “The FA has endorsed the development and initial implementation of frame football as an activity to engage non ambulant players.

The guidance, developed by Cerebral Palsy Sport, provides ideas for delivering football activities and game related scenarios.

Football providers are encouraged to utilise this guidance as templates for organising sessions. It is envisaged that further work will be undertaken to formalise the game (including the confirmation of the laws of the game) at a later stage and at such a time when an initial base of participation focused sessions/clubs have been established.”

CP Football Kick-Offs A CP Kick-Off event brings together hubs of CP football activity to give them a chance to take part in competitive football within a fun and safe environment, enabling the players to experience the next level of football activity, building on what players are learning at their local sessions.

The event includes age and ability appropriate activities working around the key skills of football. Players will take part in a number of different activities that involve skill-based work and small-sided games.

CP Football Kick-Off events will eventually become the setting for regional leagues and competitions, providing player and club pathways into national grassroots competitions.

If you love football and want to learn more about Cerebral Palsy Sport activities, then please visit our website www.cpsport.org

I Momentum There are a number of simple, practical and innovative ways of making a club more accessible including the provision of services such as audio descriptive commentary for blind and partially sighted spectators, the installation of hearing loops in ticket offices, shops and information areas for deaf and hard of hearing spectators and ensuring that a wheelchair user can travel freely around the ground.

An Accessible Club: Derby County FC

London 2012 gave disabled sports fans a taste of just what is possible and several clubs have used smart low cost accessible solutions with a huge impact.

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Derby County is a prime example and is the first Football League club to have been awarded the Level Playing Field Centre of Excellence Award for demonstrating the highest access and inclusion standards for disabled fans. The iPro Stadium now sits alongside Wembley and the Emirates Stadium as the only football grounds to have reached this standard.

With over 12.4 million disabled people in the UK having an estimated spending power of over £80bn per annum – there’s clearly a lucrative market just waiting to be untapped.

Improvements to the iPro Stadium have included; additional raised viewing platforms for wheelchair users, rest point seating in the concourse areas, lowered counters at refreshment bars and golf buggies to transport disabled fans to and from the car parks and drop off points.

s a service provider, sports clubs are required by law to be accessible to disabled people but there are also ethical and commercial reasons which contribute to improving social inclusion. Evidence also shows that being accessible makes good business sense.

Former Derby County Disability Liaison Officer, Keith Marson was instrumental in persuading Derby County to invest in the improved facilities and services and he worked closely with the Derby County Disabled Supporters Association and LPF to provide valuable insight into improving the match day experience for disabled fans.

There is still so much more to do to ensure inclusive access for all sports fans and the iPro stadium is an example of how accessibility can be enhanced with determination and smart thinking in simple, innovative yet cost effective ways.

For further information, contact Level Playing Field on 020 8621 2403, info@levelplayingfield.org.uk or visit us at www.levelplayingfield.org.uk

///////////////////////////////////// ...is a brand within the Health & Fitness Industry centred on raising awareness for and supporting athletes of any sporting discipline with disabilities.

Established in 2012; at JGFitness we work tirelessly to support athletes with disabilities within a very mainstream orientated industry in a variety of ways, they include; • Athlete Exposure • Networking • Bespoke Training & Nutritional Services

• Campaigning • Sponsoring Events • Clothing

We have our very own clothing range designed to promote the brand and it’s ethos and try to make people aware of the work we try and do by encouraging them to visit our website. » www.jgfitness.co » www.jgfitness.bigcartel.com (clothing)

Supporting people with disabilities “One Rep A Time” Follow Us: @Momentum_Mag I Momentum I 41

EFDS I Momentum

English Federation of Disability Sport Supporting you to be active for life

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Disabled people looking for activities:

he English Federation of Disability Sport (EFDS) is the national charity, dedicated to disabled people in sport and physical activity throughout England. Since the organisation was formed in 1998, EFDS has been active in raising awareness of disabled people’s needs in order to be active for life.

EFDS’s website provides a wealth of information for disabled people to read about, access or take part in a range of activities. www.efds.co.uk

Not every disabled person can or will want to be a Paralympian or even reach elite standard. For many of us, just being active is enough. We appreciate that, for some disabled people, being active may not be feasible.

However, EFDS’s research tells us that the majority of disabled people want to be more active and they require local opportunities which fit in to their daily lives and values. That is why EFDS is keen to ensure all opportunities encourage people with every impairment and at a level they wish to take part at.

• Participation opportunities Search through many activities to find a sport, location or level right for you. Have a go days, festivals, regional and national events and so much more.

• In Your Area Find out more news and activities in your region www.efds.co.uk/our_work_ in_sport/in_your_area

www.efds.co.uk/events

42 I Momentum I www.momentummagazine.co.uk

For events and activity providers: Join many activity providers and add your events on our site for free. You can post your own local, regional and national events for free through our self-completion form. Simply add your details and we will do the rest. www.efds.co.uk/events/ post_your_event_or_ participation_opportunity The English Federation of Disability Sport manages the Disability Sport Events programme, which can support you to manage your own competitions.

Find out more here: www.efds.co.uk/our_work_ in_sport/disability_sport_ events

Disability Sport NI I Momentum >> Staff from Sainsbury’s help celebrate the milestone of the 500th teacher in Northern Ireland taking part in the Sainsbury’s Active Kids for All Inclusive PE Programme.

5 Star Disability Sport Challenge

500th Teacher trained in Northern Ireland through Sainsbury’s Active Kids for All Programme

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uring August 2014, the 500th local teacher in Northern Ireland completed the Sainsbury’s Active Kids for All Inclusive PE Programme. The milestone was achieved by Disability Sport NI along with staff at St. MacNissi’s Primary School, Larne.

The Sainsbury’s Active Kids for All Inclusive PE Programme is an innovative UK-wide training course to provide teachers, trainee teachers and classroom assistants with the knowledge and skills needed to run inclusive PE sessions.

After London 2012, the four Home Country disability sport organisations and Sainsbury’s, with the support of Paralympics GB and the Youth Sport Trust joined forces to develop the Active Kids programme. Supported by a £1 million investment from Sainsbury’s, the free training supports mainstream schools to provide a high quality PE curriculum for all young people.

The programme which enables children and young people with disabilities to get involved with and take part in a sport of their choosing has a profound impact on their confidence and self-esteem.

Further information on the Sainsbury’s Active Kids for All Inclusive PE Programme can be found at www.inclusivepe.co.uk or www.dsni.co.uk

Northern Ireland Wheelchair Basketball - UK Schools Games, Manchester, 4th-7th of September 2014 Recently the Northern Ireland Wheelchair Basketball team jetted off to Manchester to compete in the 2014 UK Schools Games.

The team of young development players and fledging coaches struggled to compete against stern and experience opposition.

That being said the ethos that drives the Northern Ireland wheelchair basketball talent development programme is not results focused. The important factors are the experience and knowledge gained from playing against quality opposition, which push players to become better and excel at a later stage when results do become a focus at International competition. The overall experience for players and coaches was invaluable.

Disability Sport Northern Ireland just received funding from Sport NI to continue to deliver the 5 Star Disability Sport Challenge to primary schools across Northern Ireland. The innovative programme aims to contribute to the legacy of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games by increasing children’s awareness and understanding of disability.

5 Star Disability Sport Challenge involves school-based presentations as well as giving children the opportunity to participate in five disability sports challenges, each based on a Paralympic sport. By doing so the project hopes to challenge commonly held negative attitudes about people with disabilities, and to inspire and encourage more disabled and non-disabled children to become more active in sport.

To date 228 primary schools and 33,375 children across Northern Ireland have taken up the challenge and the project was granted the prestigious London 2012 Inspire mark, the badge of the London 2012 Inspire programme which recognises exceptional and innovative projects inspired by the 2012 Games.

What’s On in Northern Ireland 23.10.14 – NI Special Schools New Age Kurling Championships 2014 15.11.14 – NI Open Swimming Championships 19.12.14 – Fermanagh Inclusive Basketball Tournament

>> Children from a local primary school taking part in Disability Sport NI’s 5 Star Disability Sport Challenge programme.

Find out more about these events and Disability Sport NI at www.dsni.co.uk Follow Us: @Momentum_Mag I Momentum I 43

Disabilitt Sport Wales I

Creating a legacy for disability sport: THE SWANSEA 2014 IPC ATHLETICS EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

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hen Swansea was awarded the honour of hosting the 2014 IPC Athletics European Championships the Local Organising Committee (LOC) identified the ambitions delivering ‘the very best Championships to date’ as well as inspiring people, challenging perceptions of disability and creating sustainable legacy projects which would further drive disability sport in the city and across the region.

To achieve these ambitions a strong partnership was created including Swansea University, the City and County of Swansea, Welsh and British Athletics, Welsh Government, Sport Wales and Disability Sport Wales (DSW).

Initial feedback from IPC Athletics and the 37 countries who participated suggests that Swansea 2014 has indeed been successful in delivering the best

Championships to date. This was achieved by placing the athlete at the heart of the planning for Swansea 2014 and by using the experience of previous European and World para-athletic events to target where the bar could be raised.

Delivering the remaining ambitions around perception and legacy required more thought. The resulting experience of Swansea 2014 is that genuine and sustainable legacy could only work if it was driven by the needs of the host city/region, which in turn linked to the wider strategy for disability sport in Wales.

As a result the LOC created the Swansea 2014 ‘Power of Sport’ legacy programme which aligned with Disability Sport Wales vision of ‘Transforming Lives through the Power of Sport’.

The first project focussed on sustainable volunteering. Free disability inclusion training was given all 500 volunteers. Post event, these volunteers are now being re-engaged to use their skills with local disability sport programmes. An Inclusive Futures Co-ordinator was appointed for 18 months to use the momentum of Swansea 2014 to recruit a further 125 young volunteers (including a minimum of 25 young disabled people) who will target an additional 1250 disabled children & young people to take part in sport. This project links directly to wider national priorities to attract volunteers and increase participation.

‘Creating a Nation of Champions’ is another key mission of DSW. A project

44 I Momentum I www.momentummagazine.co.uk

addressing this involved the recruitment of new athletes who could form the nucleus of a South West Wales squad, a region where hitherto few athletes had emerged. Following an intensive period of identification and training the squad is now well established with clear targets over the next four years to develop into an elite group who will go on to represent Wales and hopefully Great Britain.

Finally, people’s perceptions around disability were challenged through the production of a book, ‘Gold As Gold’. Young disabled people (11-16years age) from across Swansea were able to express their creative talent through poetry and art, by interpreting the inspirational stories of our Welsh paralympians.

Swansea 2014 became more than just 5 days of elite sports competition. The Championships set out to engage with the athletes, local communities, and inparticular young disabled people from across the region by placing equality and sustainable development at the heart of its approach. With careful planning and clear goals the event has galvanised new and important opportunities from which the city and region can drive disability sport forward.

For further information about DSW please contact: offcee@isabilittsporttalesscom Web: disabilitysportwales.com Facebook: DisabilitySportWales Ttitter: @dsw_news

Scottish Disability Sport I Momentum

>> Libby Clegg and Mikhail Huggins: Para-athletics T12 100m

Well done to all the athletes, players and support staff who inspired so many.

Gold

Inspirational and Successful Para Athletes Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games

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he Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games were inspiring and exceptionally successful for the participating para athletes. These were the most inclusive Commonwealth Games ever staged, with 22 para events being totally integrated into the Games programme. The 22 para events ranged across five sports: swimming, athletics, lawn bowls, powerlifting and cycling. This was Team Scotland’s largest ever para sport contingent who contributed more medals than ever before to the Scottish total.

Congratulations to Team Scotland on the tremendous performances at the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.

The performances of the 22 para athletes in Team Scotland were outstanding and Scottish Disability Sport wishes to pay tribute to the athletes, directors, pilots and guide selected for the 310-strong Scottish team, equating to 7% of the team who performed in 12 out of the 22 (55%) para events.

All the para athletes had significant performances as part of Team Scotland, many setting personal bests and seven returning with well-earned medals.

Out of the 66 medal opportunities in the 22 events, Scotland won a total of seven medals or 11% of the total medals available for para events and winning three gold medals (14% of the 22 available).

There were many outstanding results from the para athletes at the Games. These athletes are incredible role models and will hopefully inspire the next generation of young disabled athletes. 94% of the athletes made it to the final of their events and it should also be recognised that three out of the 22 athletes only entered the performance pathway in their sport within the last 18 months.

Neil Fachie and Craig MacLean: Para-cyling tandem sprint Neil Fachie and Craig MacLean: Paracycling 1000m time trial B tandem Libby Clegg and Mikhail Huggins: Para-athletics T12 100m

Silver Aileen McGlynn and Louise Haston: Para-cycling women’s tandem sprint Aileen McGlynn and Louise Haston: Para-cycling women’s 1000m time trial B tandem Robert Conway and Ron McArthur/ Irene Edgar and David Thomas: Para-bowls B2/B3 Mixed Pairs

Bronze Erraid Davies: Para-swimming SB9 100m breaststroke If you have been inspired by these inclusive Games and wish to participate or support sport for people with disabilities, please contact us through our Branch, Regional Development Manager or National Network by visiting Scottish Disability Sport’s website: www.scottishdisabilitysport.com , facebook or twitter, or email on admin@scottishdisabilitysport.com or telephone 0131 317 1130.

Eight (36%) of the 22 Scottish paraathletes were under 25 years of age, with the youngest member of the team being 13 years old Erraid Davies, who was in fact the youngest member of Team Scotland in Glasgow 2014.

The Glasgow Games were dubbed the “Friendly Games” and the inclusion of para events were an undoubted success with spectators and athletes unanimous that the Games had done much to raise the profile of disability sport and increase the public’s perceptions of what disabled athletes and players can achieve.

>> Neil Fachie and Craig MacLean: Para-cyling tandem sprint

Follow Us: @Momentum_Mag I Momentum I 45

CP Sport I Momentum

Games Starters to inspire the next generation

Cricket Ground and the Richard Herrod Bowls Centre. Please note that all Games Starters must be a minimum of 18 years of age by 1st April 2015, although volunteers aged 16 & 17 years could also be a Games Starter by applying as part of a recognised group, see below for information.

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erebral Palsy Sport are delighted to announce that August 2015 will see Nottingham host the return of the Cerebral Palsy International Sports and Recreation Association’s World Games, a platform that allows athletes with cerebral palsy from across the globe to compete against one-another. Recognising the crucial role that volunteers have played in the successes of previous international sporting events, we have launched the Games Starters programme to recruit volunteers to support the Nottingham 2015 CPISRA World Games.

We are looking to recruit Games Starters to support all aspects of the Games, from event support; media liaisons and results runners to Games Village support and ceremonies. Although most of these roles will be required during Games time (6th – 16th August 2015), we are also looking for volunteers to support with the preparation before the Games and the close down of the event. The sporting activity will be split across three key sporting venues; Nottingham City Council’s new iconic Harvey Hadden Sports Complex, Trent Bridge

Ali Talbot, Chief Executive of Cerebral Palsy Sport said, “These Games will be a wonderful event which we hope will inspire young people with cerebral palsy to get involved in sport. It will be our Games Starters Volunteers who will help make these Games a wonderful experience for everyone involved, from the athletes through to the spectators.”

Leon Taylor, Paralympian and Sporting Ambassador for Cerebral Palsy Sport added, “We are delighted to use this historic moment, with one year to go, to launch the Games Starters Volunteering Programme.

As an athlete who’s directly benefitted from the wonderful work volunteers carry out, the role the Games Starters will deliver will be invaluable. There are so many ways in which people can get involved and help make these Games fantastic.”

WE NOW NEED YOU! As sports development professionals you can support the Games Starter programme in a variety of ways: 1. You could sign up to be Games Starter yourself: the skills and experience you have gained in your role will be of great benefit to the programme. In addition, you can learn and develop a variety of skills whilst being a

46 I Momentum I www.momentummagazine.co.uk

Games Starter. To apply go to: www.cpsportvolunteering.co.uk/games_ starter_application/bursary 2. You could bring a team of young volunteers to help at the Games: volunteers aged 16 & 17 years 1st April 2015 can become Games Starters as part of an organised group, accompanied by 2 group leaders. To apply as a group go to www.cpsportvolunteering.co.uk/games_ starter_application/bursary_group (to be completed by the group leader only).

3. Promote the Games Starter programme to your volunteers: you can access our promotional poster for the programme by going to: www.sportnottinghamshire.co.uk/ files/5014/1086/8259/Games_Starter_ Poster.pdf - you can also find out more about the programme by going to: www.cpsport.org/nottingham-2015-worldgames/games-starters-volunteeringprogramme - The closing date for all applications is Friday 7th November 2014.

For more information about the Games Starter programme please contact John Selby-Sly (Nottingham 2015 Volunteer Manager) john.selby-sly@nottscc.gov.uk

CP Sport Website www.cpsport.org

Leicester-Shire & Rutland I Momentum

Competitive opportunities for all

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ompetitive opportunities for all our young people has been an aim of a number of initiatives.

Identifying talent, and appropriate and accessible pathways for young people with a disability whether physical, sensory or learning ‘and particularly for those in mainstream schools to follow, has been a challenging task

One success story in this field comes from work being carried out in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland schools, where a team of young people from mainstream schools have been involved in competition at the National Junior Games held at Stoke Mandeville.

The first step is the identification of these young people, achieved through several channels. One by requests from schools and sometimes parents for support and advice in mainstream schools to aid a child’s inclusion more fully in the PE curriculum.

Promotion of the CPD and competition events available from the Ellesmere College Disability School Sport Managers team, Paralympic Roadshows in mainstream schools and targeted Talent Identification days has greatly helped to raise awareness of the needs, and opportunities available.

The National Junior Games, is a residential, multi-sport competitive event, including competition events and ‘have a go’ events giving young people an opportunity to compete and discover other sports that they enjoy or have a talent for. These Games have been the springboard for progress to regional and National level sports events and inclusion in National development squads.

This is not achieved without overcoming a number of difficulties. This is not a one school team, but individuals from different mainstream schools, who need to have permission to be absent from 4 days of their school time. This takes liaison with schools and parents and co-ordination of logistics/transport etc. Then there is the availability of other support staff for that period, which varies, depending on the care needs of any of the young people.

The end result can be evidenced by this representative response from one of the parents.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank you with all my heart, it is such a fantastic opportunity for these youngsters to get out there and feel uninhibited and ‘normal’. To spend some time with their mates, and make some new ones.”

“Thank your team so much from us.

Without you all these kids, especially the kids in main stream schools, don’t get enough opportunities to spend quality time mixing with likeminded, (non-disabled) people. She absolutely loved it.”

To find out more about opportunities for gifted and talented young people with Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland please contact John Duggan the Disability Sport & PE Manager at Ellesmere College on 0116 2894242.

You can find out more about all opportunities online at:

www.lrsport.org @LR_Sport /lrsportcsp

Follow Us: @Momentum_Mag I Momentum I 47

Rugby I Momentum

Can Rugby League be truly inclusive of all disabled people?

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istorically Rugby League has earned its proud reputation of being an inclusive and welcoming governing body and sport and now we are focussing on making our sport more accessible to disabled people. One of the first decision we had to make was which approach to take; develop impairment specific versions of our sport or focus on an inclusion model.

Recent research by EFDS showed that 6 out of 10 disabled people want to play sport in a mixed setting with disabled and non-disabled friends and family playing and enjoying sport together. Also it would be difficult to develop a successful impairment specific model as we are aware that there are not enough disabled people that want to play rugby league, live in relatively close geographical proximity and share a common disability. These factors meant that as a Governing body we decided to focus on ensuring that Rugby League in its various existing forms; full contact, touch /tag or wheelchair Rugby League are as inclusive and welcoming of disabled people as possible.

There also tends to be a focus on disabled players as participants however we recognise that not all disabled people want to play sport, they might be more interested in coaching, officiating, volunteering or gaining employment.

Therefore the positive actions that we are putting in place focus not only on playing but also on wider sporting experience.

In terms of our current and future plans they can be summarised into three key areas; 1) To improve club facilities and disabled spectator experience.

2) Integration of disabled people into the mainstream as players, coaches, official’s, club volunteers or employees or working for the NGB 3) To further develop Wheelchair Rugby League as an inclusion sport

So how are we going to achieve these aims?

We are working with Level Playing Field to undertake a disability access audit of all the Kingston Press Championship and League 1 clubs as well as our headquarters.

Clubs and RFL will then be able to start developing and implementing access plans to make reasonable adjustments to improve the physical environment and make them more accessible. In order to further support the audit process we also plan to deliver disability awareness training for staff and volunteers.

With integration as our approach a vital consideration was how to address the lack of knowledge and confidence around meeting the needs of disabled people.

Following research and consultation with National Disability Sports Organisations, other disability groups and interviews with disabled people already involved in our sport we developed and launched a free online guidance for clubs. This covers seven major disability groups and covers;

48 I Momentum I www.momentummagazine.co.uk

impairment specific information, adapting playing and coaching, club support, an inspirational Rugby League case story and where to go for further information.

To view the guidance visit our website at www.therfl.co.uk/the-rfl/equitydiversity/ disability_guidance Case studies include a professional player living with sickle cell, a blind coach and a young volunteer with Aspergers. These inspiring individuals demonstrate how with a little effort and understanding disabled people can achieve their dreams and aspirations within Rugby League.

Finally following the success of the Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup tournament in July 2013 wheelchair rugby league has gone from strength to strength. Wheelchair RL is an extremely exciting spectacle for both participants and spectators. Wheelchair Rugby League is the most equitable of all our competitions because disabled and non-disabled people, men and women, adults and children are able to play and enjoy the sport together.

More information on wheelchair rugby league and where to play visit www.wheelchairrl.co.uk/ Whilst we recognise that there are many challenges ahead of us we are committed to taking positive action to ensure that Rugby League is as accessible as possible and that disabled people have a positive experience in whatever area of the sport they choose to get involved with.

For more information on disability in rugby league please contact the RFL Equality and Diversity Manager at sarah.williams@rfl.uk.com

I Momentum

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Follow Us: @Momentum_Mag I Momentum I 49

WheelPower I Momentum

Schools hail success of National Junior Games at the end of an inspirational week of sport

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isabled youngsters will be celebrating their achievements after a week-long sport experience at the National Junior Games.

Over 125 participants teamed up with school mates to travel to Stoke Mandeville Stadium to have a go at 17 inclusive sports at the iconic venue well known as the birthplace of the Paralympic movement.

In a week of team triumphs and personal success stories there were countless medals won, personal bests achieved and barriers overcome.

14 year old Brandon Fosker representing Woodlands School in Plymouth demonstrated the great impact that sport can have on the lives of young people with disabilities.

Brandon claimed gold medal in the adaptive rowing challenge, his determined performance saw him sail to victory ahead of 39 other competitors.

The rower is reaping the rewards for his committed routine which sees him row over 6,000m every week, where just three years previously he did not have the fitness or ability to manage more than a couple of strokes.

Woodlands school PE co-ordinator Katy Wedgwood explains the extent Brandon’s life has been transformed through sport: “It has improved his posture, his core strength, his muscle tone. The power that it given him and the confidence it has given him, with massive weight loss and muscle building has now enabled him to go on to try different sports like he has at the National Junior Games.”

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She added “We first came to the games two years ago after speaking to other schools that come here. The kids absolutely love it, play lots of sport and love meeting other children from other schools across the country.”

Organised by WheelPower the national charity of wheelchair sport, the National Junior Games are seen as a significant event in the calendar for disability sport and schools from all over the country take part year after year.

Team sports included wheelchair basketball, powerchair football and zone hockey. A dramatic zone hockey tournament reached a climax on the second evening. Crowds witnessed the final go into extra time before Angmering School struck a late golden goal winner.

Activities also included, table tennis, polybat, boccia, archery, cue sports, field and track athletics, powerlifting and much more in the event supported by Thomas Cook Children’s Charity.

Website: www.wheelpower.org.uk Twitter: @wheelpower

Quest 88 I Momentum

INCLUSIVE CYCLING WITH QUEST 88

>> Quest 88 & Empowered People pictured with Sir Chris Hoy.

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t was an exciting few days at the recent Cycle Show for Quest 88, who was once again hosting the ever popular Inclusive Cycling Hub. In addition to being able to test the latest inclusive cycles on the outdoor test track, visitors to the Hub had the opportunity to tap into a wealth of information and expertise for individuals, families, friends, carers and local authorities looking to learn more, engage with and promote inclusive cycling.

Quest 88 also introduced the Draisin Slider. This is a new 3-wheel semi-recumbent cycle which is easy to sit on, easy to ride and provides an exceptionally comfortable way of cycling for people with impaired balance or movement, but who still want to maintain an active lifestyle.

In addition to the latest cycles and up-to-date information, there was a recreation of a cyclists’ ‘Brew Stop’ which was manned by representatives from Quest 88 and EMpowered People, a charity set up by Simon Lord. The aim of the charity is to inspire adults with additional needs to take up cycling as a means of increased wellbeing, independence and fitness by providing advice, training, support and encouragement. EMpowered People recently organised a supported ‘Tour of Anglesey’ for disabled riders as well as a second coast to coast ride and the re-fuelling or ‘Brew Stop’ gave visitors to the show a taste of what these supported rides involve.

One stand-out exhibit in the Hub was a Hase Kettwiesel recumbent that has been configured as a trailer bike

connected to a BH Neo Cross electric bike and was used by John Aspinall in the EMpowered People coast to coast ride from Morecambe to Scarborough. Simon Lord, founder of EMpowered People explains: “John is an inspiration to us all and despite having had an arm amputated due to cancer, he is as keen a cyclist as ever, and with this bespoke configuration from Quest 88 he was able to join us in September. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Quest 88 for their continued support and BH for the kind donation of a spare battery for the Neon Cross”. The design involved the removal of the front wheel of the Hase, which was replaced with a connecting arm at 45 degrees that links the Hase to the rear of the BH Neon Cross.

This ensures that both riders can use as much or as little power as they are comfortable

with, while the lead rider undertakes the steering as both bikes have independent chains and gears.

“The Inclusive Cycling Hub really came of age and together with huge strides being made in equipment and technology, clearly demonstrated that cycling is for everyone, regardless of ability or age” commented Robert Henshaw, Joint Managing Director, Quest 88.

For the latest Inclusive Cycling Hub news call 0845 6047258, email: cycling@quest88.com or visit: www.quest88.com/all-abilitycycling For the latest EMpowered People news please visit: www.empoweredpeople.co.uk or call 07702 784 916

Follow Us: @Momentum_Mag I Momentum I 51

WDSA UK I Momentum

A HUGE Congratulations!

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he Wheelchair Dance Sport Association (UK) are delighted to announce that two of our members Paula Moulton and Gary Lyness competed in the 2014 IPC Wheelchair Dance Sport approved competition International Sport & Handicap Wheelchair Dance Cup in Belgium. The couple competed as GB Athletes and were competing against a number of countries and at the end of the event came 6th place overall.

This isn’t the only competition that the athletes are representing GB in Latin Class 2 Select. They are also looking to compete in November 2014 at the 2014 IPC Wheelchair Dance Sport European Championships in Poland. This ranking and progression of the Athletes is an exceptional achievement and is a culmination of all the hard work and training the couple have put into their sport over many years. This announcement shows the possibilities are endless for anyone that would like to get involved in a growing and dedicated sport in the UK thorough the WDSA (UK) as the national body. We

congratulate Paula and Gary again and wish them the best of luck in Poland

Wheelchair Dance Sport UK Competitions The WDSA (UK) are proud to present two upcoming Debutante Competitions this New Year in 2015. One competition will be held in Weymouth (6-7th March 2015) and the other in Kidderminster (24-25th July 2015). So don’t worry if you are from up north or down south. The competitions are held both up north (Kidderminster) and down South (Weymouth), making it accessible for all our wheelchair dancers to compete.

How do I Get Involved?

Want to follow in Paula and Gary’s footsteps, believe you could become a Wheelchair Dance Sport Athlete or just want to have fun and get involved or even instruct others in taking part in the sport.

Please contact the WDSA (UK) on 0300 111 3045 or email info@wdsauk.co.uk.

Sponsorship of the WDSA (UK)

Wheelchair Dance Sport is expanding in the UK and we are always looking for sponsors

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to come on board and join us in our mission to enable disabled people in the UK to be active in sport and have fun whilst doing it.

We are growing at a substantial rate and looking for partners to work with us through this growth. The benefit of engaging with the WDSA (UK) at this stage is that the organisation is still growing and looks set for a bright future. By supporting us now, sponsors will be making a long term investment in what would be the beginning of a growing relationship.

If your organisation or any company you know would like to help us change people’s lives through growing local groups and instructors or giving disabled children and adults an option to be active or if you would like to support our athletes to compete at competitions, please contact George@wdsauk.co.uk or call 0300 111 3045 or please look at our website www.wdsauk.co.uk

Sport in Mind I Momentum

World Mental Health Day

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in 4 people in the United Kingdom each year will be affected by a mental health problem! If we take a second to think about it… that means for every Sunday league football match that takes place across the country, at least 5 of those players that take to the pitch will be affected by a mental health problem this year… that’s a pretty shocking statistic, isn’t it?

On the 10th of October people all around the global celebrated World Mental Health Day, an international initiative to raise awareness of mental health problems and help address the associated stigma.

Sport in Mind, the independent Berkshire based mental health sports charity chose to celebrate this in their own way by delivering a host of different sporting activities over the week, to highlight the benefits sport has on our mental health and to raise awareness of mental illness. The activities delivered included athletics, badminton, cycling, football, table tennis, tai-chi, tennis and yoga.

“

When you have mental health problems life is very hard, but Sport in Mind’s football sessions in Berkshire are the one thing that has kept me going through these difficult times

”

In excess of 1,000 people took part in sport and physical activity in the celebrations, including school children, University students, children and adults with learning disabilities, adults with mental health conditions, BME groups and socially isolated older adults.

means the world to me. When you have mental health problems life is very hard, but Sport in Mind’s football sessions in Berkshire are the one thing that has kept me going through these difficult times.

I honestly don’t know where I would be without their help’.

The highlight of the celebrations for many was a football tournament for mental health service users that attracted teams from across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire.

To highlight the benefits of sport on mental health Sport in Mind and Sport England have produced a video about the lives of two people who have used sport to help their recovery from mental health problems, this can be viewed on Momentums website at:

Sport in Mind founder Neil Harris said: ‘This was our fifth year of delivering a football tournament around World Mental Health Day and every year the competition gets better and better. This year’s tournament was a great success and all the matches were played in a fantastic spirit. It really is brilliant to see so many people out playing football, socialising and having fun’.

www.momentummagazine.co.uk/_/ Videos.html

www.sportinmind.org www.facebook.com/sportinmind www.twitter.com/sportinmind1

The tournament was won overall by Reading, who played exciting attacking football and finished the tournament unbeaten, narrowly beating their local rivals Newbury to the title for the first time in four years.

The tournament’s top scorer, Michael Smith from Reading, said, ‘I always feel happy when I’m out on the football field, and playing in a tournament such as this Follow Us: @Momentum_Mag I Momentum I 53

UK Deaf Sport I Momentum

DEAFinitely Inclusive Networks & Sport Events www.ukdeafsport.org.uk I facebook.com/ukdeafsport I Twitter: @deafsport

athletics have recently run a Deaf Inclusive Leader in Running Fitness Course which has created two deaf Run leaders who are now delivering a deaf inclusive led run in Birmingham. Sports being delivered are Football, Badminton , Athletics, Golf, Futsal, Basketball and Rugby.

DEAFinitely Inclusive Networks Jude Nortier Manchester Deaf Centre

UK Deaf Sport are positively in the process of smashing barriers down and giving budding athletes the opportunity to play sport at all levels alongside their hearing counterparts in the way is always should have been.

North West Deafinitely Inclusive Network

The network contains over 40 organisations, so far Cricket, football, golf, and tennis are being delivered with further developments around athletics and squash planned.

Yorkshire Deafinitely Inclusive Network

City of York Council, with the North Yorkshire Disability forum are in developing a wider disability action plan which incorporates deaf sport. Sports currently being delivered are Cycling, Football, Golf, Athletics and Tennis.

Birmingham and the West Midlands

Deafinitely Inclusive Network England

London Deafinitely Inclusive Network

The London network steering group met for the first time in July. Motivate East held the first Deafinitely Inclusive Sports activity day on September 14th.

“Deafinitely Inclusive�

Festival of Sport Birmingham Deafinitely Inclusive Sports Event

Birmingham Institute for the Deaf (BID) ran its Deafinitely Inclusive Sports event at the Futsal Arena in Birmingham. Futsal, Basketball, Rowing, table tennis and Badminton activities were available to an enthusiastic group of young ( and not so young) people City of York Deafinitely Inclusive Sports Event

City Of York Council ran it`s first Deafinitely Inclusive event in August This was part of its wider ability counts activity week. The sports on offer were Athletics, Golf and Tennis. The event enabled City Of York Council to develop further links with the deaf community.

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London Deafinitely Inclusive Sports Event

The first Deafinitely Inclusive Sports event took place at the Mile End Stadium in East London on 14th September. An all day event it included Athletics, Badminton, Golf, Basketball, BMX, Gym activities and Tennis. Over 20 people attended and had a thoroughly enjoyable experience.

Other DEAFinitely Inclusive Activities

As the networks develop we are becoming aware of both new activities starting and also that there are lots of things happening that we were not aware of. UKDS will promote activities where coaches and volunteers are deaf aware and making appropriate communication adaptations.

North East

A network is developing around the work of North Tyneside Council and the Signing In project. A Deaf Sports Festival saw 39 people attending South West

As part of the ISF project Devon County Council have developed a Deaf multi sports club in conjunction with Deaf Academy at Exeter. In 2015 a second multi sport club is planned for Plymouth. Devon FA are developing Deaf inclusive football and the Climbing Academy in Bristol ran a successful deaf Inclusive climbing event as part of their climbing festival where over 50 people who are deaf or hard of hearing attended.

British Blind Sport I Momentum

Understanding the sporting experiences of visually impaired people

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t British Blind Sport, we help blind and partially sighted people get active and play sport.

Sport and recreational activities can enhance the lives of people with visual impairments, by improving their health and increasing their social interaction.

As we want as many visually impaired people to access these opportunities, we recently conducted a piece of research to understand the sporting experiences of people with sight loss. Here is a quick overview of some of our findings: Sportswise, our research partner, and ourselves spoke to over 200 visually impaired people via telephone interviews and invited 35 people to join us for focus groups.

Early years experiences

“When I was at school, I wasn’t allowed to do any sports” - Research participant The sporting experiences that visually impaired people have at an early age have a significant impact on the long-term perceptions of their sporting abilities.

70% of visually impaired children attend mainstream schools and so had many of our participants. Several individuals said that they were often sidelined during PE lessons in mainstream schools. They believed this was due to staff members being uncertain about how to involve them in sessions.

These types of negative experiences affected our participants’ views on sport and many of them began to identify sport as something they just couldn’t do as a visually impaired individual.

Disability-specific vs inclusive sporting opportunities

The majority of our research participants felt they had a more positive sporting experience when they played with other visually impaired people, instead of sighted people. This was because everyone at the session would have an understanding of the challenges they have faced when participating in sport. Also, for many participants, it was the encouragement from visually impaired friends that was the catalyst for them to have the confidence to take part.

However, some of our participants were attracted to inclusive sport offerings with sighted people. For some, it was about being able to show others that they were able to achieve a similar level of athletic performance to their sighted peers.

“It makes me feel more confident when people compliment my skills [when playing against sighted people].” - Research participant For others, it was just a way to continue playing sports with their entire friendship group. To continue competing against sighted people, some participants felt they needed to hide their condition; often competing against sighted players who were unaware of their impairment.

Conclusion

This article gives you a small snapshot of our research study; we discovered a lot more! We also identified the barriers to sporting participation and explored how people with a visual impairment have overcome those barriers.

If you would like to learn more about the research - including the barriers - then please contact Thomas Davies at British Blind Sport on support@britishblindsport.org.uk

Follow Us: @Momentum_Mag I Momentum I 55

Special Olympics GB I Momentum the Belgium Organisers ‘Host Town’ week where the Special Olympics GB team were based on the Harbour at Antwerp.

The Special Olympics European Summer Games Opening Ceremony took place on 13th September and continued in Antwerp until the closing ceremony on 20th September 2014. In total, 49 athletes from Great Britain represented the country at this event.

In the region of 2,000 athletes with intellectual (learning) disabilities from 58 European countries took part in the following 10 sports events: Athletics, Artistic Gymnastics, Football, Bocce, Badminton, Unified Basketball, Cycling, Judo, Table Tennis and Swimming.

ATHLETES & PRIME MINISTER PUT SPECIAL OLYMPICS GB ON EURO MAP It was an exceptionally busy September for Special Olympics GB. From a Prime Minister’s Downing Street GB Team reception; to winning the historic first gold medal of the 2014 Special Olympics European Games; to our record-breaking talented table tennis twins; a golden hattrick heroine on the cycling track – Leanne Peters; and personal best performances being set by team members everywhere; it is hard to quantify the huge success of this brilliant Belgium experience for our 49 GB athletes.

On a final incredible sporting day of these Games, Special Olympics GB surged past 100 medals – together with a host of personal bests and lifetime sporting memories being recorded.

The performances, passion and endeavour of Special Olympics GB’s athletes, coaches, families, supporters and friends hit new heights and had to be seen to be believed!

This was a two week festival of sport, joy and human spirit.

Special Olympics GB’s historic European Games adventure in Belgium just got better every day. Athletes expressed the firm view that they will remember these experiences

together with the fun and friendships they have enjoyed in the two glorious weeks - for the rest of their lives.

The final GB medal tally shows they have won: 103 medals at the Special Olympics 2014 European Games 41 Gold 34 Silver 28 Bronze The Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister kicked off the month by hosting a special reception on 8th September at Downing Street to celebrate Special Olympics GB and their athletes heading to Belgium to represent the country at the 2014 European Summer Games.

Later in that same day, the Belgian Ambassador to the UK hosted a further event for all the athletes in the Special Olympics GB European Summer Games team in Belgrave Square, Central London.

The following day (Tuesday 9th September) family, friends, the media and an orchestra gave the Special Olympics GB team a send-off they will never forget before jumping aboard Eurostar from St Pancras International to Brussels.

Then it was down to the serious business of the European Games which commence with

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Special Olympics GB is the largest registered charity providing yearround sports training and competition opportunities for thousands of people with intellectual disabilities across the England, Scotland and Wales.

This is the European showpiece event for Special Olympics – held every four years for the organisation and its athletes. Almost 1.2 million people in the UK (2% of the population) have an intellectual disability.

If you would like to find out more about Special Olympics GB & their European Summer Games team, please visit our website www.specialolympicsgb.org.uk Special Olympics GB CEO Karen Wallin said: “I would like to thank the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister for extending this incredibly generous reception to our athletes ahead of this once in a lifetime European Summer Games which was an incredible success. This was a very special two weeks for Special Olympics GB and our athletes.”

Special Olympics GB’s athletes were taken

by Eurostar from St Pancras International to Belgium for the European Summer Games.

Eurostar provided all return travel and logistical and VIP support for 100 Special Olympics GB athletes, coaches and officials heading to Brussels and then onwards to Antwerp.

Nicolas Petrovic, Eurostar’s CEO, said: “We are proud to support the great work of the Special Olympics GB team. In our 20 year history we have carried many sporting teams to major events including bringing the French, Belgian and Dutch national teams to London 2012. We were delighted to give the team a special Eurostar sendoff from St. Pancras as they started their journey to the Games.”

DSAuk I Momentum

Do Something Amazing

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n July, DSAuk held the National Sailing and Canoeing day at Rother Valley Country Park in Sheffield. Our members took part in a fabulous day of water sports which was broken up by the traditional Hog Roast lunch. A local canoe club kindly donated Kayaks, Canoes and instructors whilst Rother Valley Country Park provided the sailing and zorbing activities.

Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the day which turned out to be one of the hottest of the year.

• Lisa Longley, Mum to George, completed the Bob Graham Round Relay • Dan Shinnick, Dad to Milly, cycled 77 miles from Birmingham to Oxford • Jack Shephard won the SPC Badminton Tournament and was the only player with a disability • Steve Scott, DSA Trustee, cycled 500 miles from Serbia to Greece • Andy Duff, Dad to Josh, ran the London Marathon • Daniel Allen achieved personal bests and a bronze medal at the U15 Championships in Bedford • Jack Gambrill took part in a tandem free fall skydive • Ben Holmes and Katie Rillet-Young both achieved personal bests at the Sainsbury’s School Games.

• Pani Mamuneas won a gold medal at the IWAS games • Matt York, Dad to Sophie, completed a 10k sponsored run on the hottest day of the year

The Dwarf Sports Association UK is committed to improving the health and wellbeing of people with dwarfism and have several new initiatives in support of this aim:

All our ‘Do Something Amazing’ stories are published on the DSAuk Facebook and Twitter pages.

Do Something Amazing

DSA Challenge 100

During the 2014 National Games, DSAuk launched the ‘Do Something Amazing’ initiative. Whether it be hitting a personal best, participating in a sponsored fundraising event, undertaking a superhuman challenge or trying a brand new sport, we aim to encourage people with restricted growth to achieve something amazing for themselves.

So far, we’ve been inundated with some incredible achievements. Here is just a small sample of some of the amazing things our members have been getting up to...

Following on from ‘Do Something Amazing’ we have launched the DSA Challenge 100 campaign.

DSAuk relies heavily on fundraising and generous donations from our membership community and also the general public.

Autumn 2014 will see the launch of ‘Challenge 100’. DSAuk is challenging all of our members to raise £100 by undertaking a fundraising activity. This might be a superhuman feat such as an endurance

swim, a sponsored run or a skydive. It might also be a car boot sale, a non-uniform day at school, a coffee and cake morning or a bucket collection at a supermarket. The opportunities are endless and we’re looking forward to hearing about all the great things taking place to raise £100.

If you would like to get involved and join the ‘Challenge 100’, give us a call on 01246 296485.

The First Newcastle Achondroplasia Symposium

In support of our aim to improve health and wellbeing, DSAuk attended the First Newcastle Achondroplasia Symposium on 20th and 21st September. DSAuk joined forces with medical professionals and many other UK restricted growth charities with the ongoing aim of all parties working collaboratively to enhance medical knowledge of restricted growth conditions.

This enhanced medical knowledge will help improve the lives of people with restricted growth, which in turn, will help enhance their sporting performance.

Like to find out more?

• Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DSAUk • Follow us on Twitter @dwarfsportDSAuk • Visit www.dsauk.org.

• Give us a call in the office on 01246 296485 If you would like to become a member, visit www.dsauk.org and click ‘Join Us’.

Follow Us: @Momentum_Mag I Momentum I 57

Active Kids for All I Momentum

EFDS celebrates the success of the inclusive training programmes

Inclusive Community Training

“The training made me more confident in delivering group activities and has opened my eyes to how easy it is to adapt activities to include everyone” Babs, a support worker from North Yorkshire.

Babs is one of 480 parents, carers, support workers, healthcare professionals and volunteers who since April 2014 have attended an Inclusive Community Training workshop.

This low cost training initiative (costs £10 per person, although subsidies may apply) aims to create new opportunities for disabled people to access physical activity and sport by providing training to those who support disabled people in the community.

The training has had a considerable impact on participants’ confidence, skills and knowledge in the inclusion of disabled people in physical activity, with attendees rating

this 55% higher after the workshop compared to before.

You can read more about the impact of the training on the programme page of the EFDS website: www.efds.co.uk.

To find out about workshops taking place near you or for further information about the programme, please contact EFDS via email: AK4A@efds.co.uk or phone: 01509 227751.

Inclusive PE Training

“The workshop made me more aware of the difficulties pupils face in PE and gave me ideas for how I could help them progress and feel valued in lessons. The skills I learnt have benefitted all of my students, as it enables the freedom to develop and the opportunity to be successful.”

Elaine Brady, PE Teacher.

Elaine is one of over 3,080 teachers, trainee teachers and school staff across the UK who have attended a free Inclusive PE Training workshop,

58 I Momentum I www.momentummagazine.co.uk

benefitting an estimated 72,800 young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

This initiative, which is a Paralympic legacy programme, has been designed to support teachers and school staff to provide a high-quality PE curriculum for all young people.

After the training, attendees rated their confidence, skill and knowledge in the inclusion of young disabled people in PE 61% higher than they did prior to the workshop.

You can read more about the impact of the training on the programme page of the EFDS website: www.efds.co.uk.

If the teachers and school staff you know would benefit from support to provide a high quality PE curriculum for all young people, please contact EFDS for further details or to book a place on the free training. Email: AK4A@efds.co.uk or telephone: 01509 227751.

COMPETITION

R

eady for a new look for the New Year? Why not take a look at what renowned team wear specialists GFORCE could do for you. Plus Momentum readers have the chance to scoop an incredible prize – an image makeover upto the value of £500 inc vat.

GFORCE offers a huge variety of garments ideal for a wide range of sports. The lucky team will win their own custom GFORCE dye sublimated kit, dye sublimation enables you to print whatever you like, however you like- be it solid colours, graduated colours, club badges, numbers or individual names, directly into the fabric. In order to win this prize you just need to show how you would use dye sublimation to design your perfect kit.

Remember, the only limit is your imagination, so let yourself go wild.

To download your design template either:

How to enter:

Visit the download section at

www.gforcesportswear.co.uk Email designs@gforcesportswear.co.uk to request a template.

www.gforcesportswear.co.uk n.b information (press release) and images of the winning team will be used within GFORCE’s marketing promotion. ** Closing Date: December 5th 2014

WIN!

>> For YOUR chance to WIN our main prize, or one of the four runner up prizes, just answer the following question: >> At the 2012 Summer Paralympics in London, Ellie Simmonds (OBE) won four medals, out of the 4 medals how many were gold?

How to Enter: Send your answers to

info@momentummagazine.co.uk, along with your name, postal address, contact email address and telephone number.

Prizes: Main Prize Includes:

1 x Arena Fastpack, 1 x Arena Logo Towel, 1 x Kickboard, 1 x Freeflow Pullboy, 1 x Pair of Goggles, 1 x Cap, 1 x Signed Cap

2 x Runners Up Prizes Include:

1 x Arena Spiky Medium Bag (Pink), 1 x Pair of Goggles, 1 x Cap, 1 x Signed Cap

2 x Runners Up Prizes Include: 1 x Arena Spiky Medium Bag (Black), 1 x Pair of Goggles, 1 x Cap, 1 x Signed Cap

Closing Date - 15th December 2014

@Momentum_Mag I Momentum I 59

Inclusive Fitness Initiative I Momentum

Let’s get PhysicALL: find a gym that’s right for you

T

he Inclusive Fitness Initiative (IFI) has been running for over ten years. A successful programme managed by the English Federation of Disability Sport, it provides disabled people with accessible physical activity.

Regular exercise is proven to provide social and personal benefits as well as improving physical and mental health. It is also great fun. Using a gym is more than just about getting fit.

It has become a lifestyle choice for many disabled people.

An IFI facility provides a fully inclusive customer journey for all users. Your workout will be made more comfortable with

a range of support including accessible changing rooms, training advice and equipment choice.

There are now over 400 IFI Mark facilities nationally spread throughout the country. They are equipped with a range of IFI accredited fitness equipment as well as highly trained gym staff, who are experts in supporting you to become more physically active.

To find your nearest IFI Mark gym, simply enter your postcode into the facility search engine on EFDS’s website. Choose between a map or list view when you search here www. efds.co.uk/inclusive_fitness/ ifi_gyms

60 I Momentum I www.momentummagazine.co.uk

Follow IFI and their latest tweets on @Incl_fitness

Accessible Tourism I Momentum

Euan’s Guide:

Disabled Access Reviews >> Provided By: Kiki Macdonald of Euan’s Guide

E

uan MacDonald was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in 2003.

He was just 29 years old then. More than a decade later, Euan’s resilience and good cheer continues to astonish his friends and family. His determination to overcome the limitations enforced upon him by this dreadful disease inspires all who know him.

In 2007, thanks in part to a generous donation from the MacDonald family, the Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research was established at the University of Edinburgh. The new centre built on the university’s already strong research facilities into motor neurone biology and regenerative medicine.

But though the search for cures for MND and other, related, diseases remains vital, it is not the only part of Euan’s story. He has never wanted to be defined by Motor Neurone Disease. There is an important difference between living with a disability and being confined by it.

When Euan started using a wheelchair, a little over 5 years ago, he became frustrated at the lack of disabled access

information available and fed up of going to the same places again and again because he knew he could definitely get in the door.

Euan and his sister Kiki came up with the idea of Euan’s Guide – a disabled access review website & app. Euan’s Guide is designed to make life easier for disabled people, offering them reliable, peerreviewed information on hundreds of places across the UK (and beyond – they have already started to receive their first international reviews).

The user’s experience of train stations, concert halls, bars, restaurants and every other kind of public place is more personal than “official” stamps of approval. Many venues that boast disabled access in theory do not do so in practice. Similarly, there are places that have great disabled access but are not telling anyone about it. There are also places in which helpful, considerate staff make up for technical shortcomings in the level of access provided.

Euan’s Guide is a listings and review website that helps disabled people and their families know which venues are truly accessible. “A generic disabled access badge doesn’t always tell the whole story” says Euan. “Our website can give

you confidence that someone in a similar situation has been there and can make a recommendation. The website makes it easier to enjoy experiences that many people might take for granted. It could be as simple as meeting a friend for a cup of coffee but you still need to know which places are suitable before you go.”

Knowing in advance can avoid disappointment and frustration, making life easier and smoother for disabled people, their carers and their families. Euan’s Guide already has more than 1200 listings and Euan and his sister Kiki, who is helping run the website, hope this number will increase rapidly in the months ahead.

“Often disabled people are put off visiting places because they can’t find out if they can get in, if there is an accessible toilet and what the staff are like” says Kiki.

“Euan’s Guide sets out to remove these fears by sharing each other’s experiences on an easy to use and accessible website.”

Euan’s Guide are asking all Momentum readers to contribute by reviewing their five favourite places – visit EuansGuide.com to get started.

Twitter: @EuansGuide Facebook: www.facebook.com/EuansGuide

Follow Us: @Momentum_Mag I Momentum I 61

Accessible Tourism I Momentum

The Pioneer Centre:

Push yourself and reach higher!

N

ext summer come and enjoy us on an activity weekend tailored to those with disabilities and access needs at ACUK’s Pioneer Centre, in picturesque South Shropshire.

Our first holiday during August 2014 was such a success we’ve added more dates next year.

memories. We also have a variety of aids that can be used on activity sessions to help you achieve.

After all the fun relax back in your lounge or en-suite room before being re-fuelled with seasonal meals from Friday evening meal through to Sunday lunch. Talk to us about our bedroom and dining equipment/ aids which can be made available upon request.

Through four adventure activities during the course of the weekend we’ll provide you with opportunities to achieve things you previously thought impossible; a chance to push yourself and reach higher! Have a go at wheelchair abseiling on our purpose-built tower for example. Our fully qualified and experienced instructors will provide you with unforgettable

Open to families, adults and children with carers/parents.

Meet lots of new people and all at an incredible price.

Get all the info online at www.pioneercentre.org.uk or call Bev on 01299 271217 (ACUK is part of the youth charity NAYC, Reg charity no. 803431).

Accessible self-catering cottages for a holiday or ‘Short Break’ Newly opened: 4 spacious, accessible cottages which cater for individuals with a range of disabilities, as well as their families. Each cottage has a wet-floor shower and ceiling tracking hoists.

Situated in the seaside village of Lundin Links, Fife they have beautiful views over the Forth Estuary. The on-site Paxton (drop-in) Centre offers therapies and activities. access to garden patio and garden areas • Easy specialist equipment supplied and • Other Clos-o-Mat toilet in two cottages from the Largo Bay award-winning • Minutes beach and Fife Coastal Path & adapted bicycles available via • Sailability Fife Outdoor Education Centre • Velux balcony upstairs to enjoy the sea breeze

Tel: 01333 329 039 E-Mail: info@homelands-fife.co.uk Web: www.homelands-fife.co.uk Registered Charity number SC027281

62 I Momentum I www.momentummagazine.co.uk

Hannahs at Seale-Hayne is set within 90 acres of Devon countryside and is a place of true integration and imagination supporting adults with disabilities through employment, training and experiences such as art, music, animal care, radio producing and horticulture. It is open to the public 7 days a week with a Bistro, shops, Health and Wellbeing Centre, including hydrotherapy pool, and outdoor pursuits.

Hannahs has recently introduced a range of accessible accommodation including: • Accessible glamping cabins • Short break accessible family apartment • Respite accommodation For more information T: 01626 325 825 | E: enquiries@discoverhannahs.org Hannahs at Seale-Hayne, Howton Lane, Newton Abbot, Devon, TQ12 6NQ www.discoversealehayne.org | /discoverhannahs | @discoverhannahs Hannahs is committed to sustainable travel Dame Hannah Roger’s School, registered charity no. 306948. Dame Hannah Rogers Trust, a limited company registered in England and Wales with number 5512987, and registered as a charity with number 1148882, and whose registered office address is at Woodland Road, Ivybridge, Devon PL21 9HQ is the sole trustee of Dame Hannah Roger’s School.

Accessible Tourism I Momentum

“

I felt utterly compelled to drown you in praise for ALL the staff we encountered while we stayed with you.

All of the helpfulness and willingness to help and be patient and welcoming makes SUCH a difference.

L

”

ocated in the New Forest National Park, Avon Tyrrell is an inclusive and accessible site for groups and individuals. With action and adventure breaks, we have opportunities and activities for everyone to enjoy in a safe environment.

On site we offer an extensive range of exciting outdoor adventure activities and inclusive bike hire

and tracks. With a selection of specialist equipment and facilities, we can ensure everyone can participate.

Autumn/Winter

For those looking for an autumn/ winter break we have a choice of 6, 12 or 14 berth lodges for you to cosy up in and our location inside the National Park means you can explore and discover a range of places.

Accessible Adventure Breaks

LODGE RULES Wake up with a smile Gff Htiktitiff, Cfftititititiff fftiff Kfftiffktitiff

Avon Tyrrell also offers a number of family breaks designed exclusively for those families with a child with a disability. Weekends run throughout the year and cost from £50-£85pp which includes full board accommodation and a full activity package.

To find out more about how we can meet your needs, or to arrange a site visit, please contact us on 01425 672347 or email info@ukyouth.org. Our trained and dedicated staff understand the challenges of coming away and can offer advice and support every step of the way.

Hard work not allowed Wrap up warm Relax Fish Play Eat plenty and nap often Stay warm and cosy

***Special Offer***

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Avon Tyrrell, UK Youth Outdoor Activity Centre Bransgore, Hampshire, BH23 8EE 01425 672347 info@ukyouth.org www.avontyrrell.org.uk

UK Youth is a registered charity no. 1110590 and a company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales no. 5402004

Sage Gateshead offers a wealth of music and musical learning opportunities for individuals who have special educational needs and/or disabilities.

Open access music making with performance opportunities

Training and CPD for music practitioners and work placement opportunities

Music Therapy

Winner - North East England Tourism Access For All Gold 2013 Visit sagegateshead.com/join-in or call 0191 443 5165 for full details For access information visit sagegateshead.com/access 64 I Momentum I www.momentummagazine.co.uk

SDC HR I Momentum

SDC HR:

Disability in Employment

T

his is the first in a series of articles written by specialists in HR & Employment law, SDC HR. We hope to increase awareness of disability issues in employment and will focus on aspects of the law that tend to be misunderstood by employers and employees.

What qualifies as a ‘disability’?

What kinds of protection do disabled employees have?

Few people understand the legal test for a disabling condition. Consequently employers sometimes do not realise when they have a duty to make adjustments. A disability must be ‘long term’.

However, this only means that it must have lasted for more than a year, or that it is likely to last this long.

There is often some confusion about the types of duty employers owe to disabled employees. There are in fact five different kinds of unlawful conduct.

Obviously, it is unlawful to treat a disabled person less favourably because they are disabled (this is known as ‘direct discrimination’).

However, it is also unlawful to do so for a reason that is related to a disabling condition.

So for example, if an employee is slow at their job because of a disability, the employer cannot issue a formal warning and require the employee to speed up.

Employers also have a duty to treat disabled employees more favourably than those who do not suffer from a disability. This duty requires the employer to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ to help the employee overcome difficulties that are caused by their disability.

It is unlawful to treat an employee detrimentally because they have complained about discrimination (‘victimisation’), or to engage in unwanted conduct that relates to a disability and violates an employee’s dignity (‘harassment’).

Impairments may be physical or mental: often it will not be apparent that an individual suffers from a disability.

Employers must be vigilant when an employee shows signs that may amount to a disability.

Examples include: diabetes, cancer, MS, ME, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, arthritis, depression and osteoporosis.

Certain types of condition automatically qualify as disabilities irrespective of their effect. These are: HIV infection, cancer, MS, blindness and partial sight.

If someone has suffered from a disability in the past but no longer suffers from it, they remain protected as before.

Some kinds of condition do not qualify, such as: hay fever, exhibitionism, voyeurism or

a tendency to steal, abuse or set fires. Equally alcoholism and drug addiction cannot be disabilities in their own right; however, these may cause a condition that is a disability (liver disease, pancreatitis, nerve damage, etc).

Generally, it is wise for employers to avoid getting too bogged down in medical concepts and focus on the effect a condition is having on an employee’s abilities.

In our next article we will consider the employer’s state of knowledge and the types of adjustment that are required.

It must also have a ‘substantial adverse effect’, but the word ‘substantial’ means only ‘more than minor or trivial’, so many conditions will satisfy this requirement.

Equally, the condition does not need to be a clinically recognised one: the focus is on the effect on the individual, not on any diagnosis. A recent decision by the European Courts underlined this concept when explaining that morbid obesity could be a disability.

What types of condition are likely to be disabilities?

Employees who have suffered the loss of a limb are clearly disabled, however, other more subtle conditions will often qualify also.

It is important to remember that the effect of a disability will not always be apparent.

Many conditions have fluctuating effects and yet are likely to qualify as disabilities.

SDC HR provides Employers with practical and accessible advice & solutions Our focus is on client care, personalised service and quick response times We simplify complex issues

We can: • Audit Personnel Files • Support your recruitment processes • Tailor Contracts of Employment for your business • Provide comprehensive Employee Handbooks • Ensure Grievances are properly handled • Assist with complex Disciplinary issues • Provide bespoke training • Advise on safeguarding issues

Our clients say we ‘Remove the headache from HR’

To read our testimonials and find out more: Visit: www.sdc-hr.com Email us on info@sdc-hr.com Call us on 01494 671 551 for friendly advice

Follow Us: @Momentum_Mag I Momentum I 65

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We’re looking for a new generation of talented players to help England shine on the world stage, in all forms of disability cricket.

That’s why we’ve put together a booklet explaining all you need to know about the road ahead if you dream of representing your country one day.

Whether you’re blind, visually impaired, deaf, hearing impaired, physically disabled or have a learning disability, there’s a pathway open to you…

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE PATHWAY FOR YOU To learn more about the opportunities cricket could hold for you, email disabilitycricket@ecb.co.uk to request a copy of our booklet, ‘England Disability Cricket Pathway: Becoming a Successful England Player’

To download an online version, or the audio guide for blind and visually impaired players, go to www.ecb.co.uk/development/disability-cricket