We’ve teamed up with MORE THAN to find out how inclusivity in sport is playing a crucial role in supporting disabled adults across the UK, and the role our dogs have to play in Making Sport Possible.
The survey
Our new survey talked to 1,000 disabled adults who participate in sport, whether it’s watching their favourite team or competing themselves. It highlights how sport helps to combat social isolation, with 86% of those surveyed saying that participating in sport has stopped them from feeling lonely.
72% of respondents had avoided sport altogether at some point as they felt it was inaccessible to them because of their disability.
But upon finding disability-inclusive clubs in their local area, 90% have said that finding sport has improved their life for the better.
MORE THAN & Dogs for Good
Inclusion is key
The study also highlights the importance of inclusion to the vast majority of those surveyed, with over half (54%) also revealing they would be a lot more likely to attend a sporting event which promotes inclusivity at its heart. The main reason is because inclusive events demonstrate how sport can be accessible to everyone regardless of whether they’re disabled or not (46%). More than a third (38%) believe inclusive attitudes at sporting events help challenge societal stereotypes and biases and over three quarters (78%) of disabled adults also revealed that watching sports has changed their lives for the better.
How our dogs help
Our dogs enable people up and down the country to partake in or spectate a sport they love; none perhaps more so than Nita, who, at Paul’s side, has accompanied him on many occasions to watch his beloved Manchester United. Without football, and without Nita, Paul felt isolated and depressed. The support Nita provides Paul empowered him to get back involved with football, and she’s been loving being by his side.
Assistance dogs like Nita not only help by providing physical help while out and about, but also build confidence and empower people to live happier, healthier and more independent lives.