Understanding the barriers to participation in sport

According to data compiled from the annual national Active People Survey by Sport England, the main reason given by disabled people for not participating in sport is their disability or health.

In response to this finding, the English Federation of Disability Sport (EFDS) undertook qualitative research in order to gain insight into the real and perceived barriers preventing the deaf and disabled from taking part in sport.

The report, “Understanding the barriers to participation in sport” summarises this research, which ultimately highlights the need for greater emphasis on Deaf and disability awareness, a greater awareness of adaptations and assistive technolog and better marketing, reduction of red tape, adoption of web-accessibility standards and increased funding.

The research explored various barriers defined as physical, logistical and psychological, with the clear finding that psychological barriers are the most influential.