The positive impact of sport and the Paralympics to empower people with disabilities

Posted: 08/09/2016

During the opening of the 2016 Paralympics in Rio, Sir Philip Craven, International Paralympic Committee President, sought to inspire the assembled Paralympian athletes and referred to the tenets of “inclusion” and “empowerment”.

As a firm, Penningtons Manches acts for many individuals who have severe disabilities through no fault of their own. When considering their needs, it is important to consider exactly what support they will require to maximise their independence and autonomy, as well as their potential.

Such support may include therapies such as physiotherapy to reduce the impact of contractures and to maintain posture, and the provision of specialist equipment to aid their mobility, help them interact with those around them and control their environment.

Participation in sporting activities not only improves physical condition but is also important psychologically, generating positive feelings of inclusion and confidence.

Alison Appelboam Meadows, a partner in the clinical negligence team at Penningtons Manches, comments: “Over the years, we have seen quite severely disabled clients, who have received sufficient support and encouragement, participate in high level sports. These have included playing in regional boccia teams and competing in the Paralympics. The importance of empowering such individuals to participate in sport cannot be overstated.”

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