Funding offers disabled people a sporting chance

Capability Scotland has been awarded funding from the Bank of Scotland Foundation to help include disabled people in sports, leisure and cultural activities.

Research shows that disabled people are over a third less likely to take part in social and cultural activities and events.  This might be because they can't access the venue, there is a lack of appropriate facilities within the venue or they have personal care needs that make it difficult for them to take part without support from their care worker or a family member.

The funding will enable Capability to address some of these barriers. For example it will help provide staff members to accompany individuals to the leisure activity of their choice. It will also be used to help with transport costs so that people can get to their local sports and community centres and other  leisure facilities in their area.

Richard Hamer, Capability Director of External Affairs commented:

"Capability Scotland is delighted to have been granted this award. Being able to take part in sport and leisure activities is hugely beneficial to a person's welfare, However, some disabled people are denied opportunities because of the barriers which exist. For example over half of households which include a disabled person are surviving on an income of less than £15,000 a year, the financial barrier to participation is a very real one.

"This award will allow us to offer practical support to many disabled adults and children who would be otherwise cut off from enjoying sports, leisure and cultural activities."