The Disability Football Focus Group was established back in June 2001, as a means of creating further opportunity for disabled people in football, through a co-ordinated approach.
In 2002 the group received £161,962 (70%) from the football foundation to deliver a County wide programme. The group have just submitted an application to the Football Foundation to deliver a new five year programme.
The plans main aim is to increase the number of opportunities for participation / competition on a more regular basis to those that mirror mainstream football i.e. regular training and competition at a local level.
The development plan has nine aims:
1. Increase participation for disabled players and to develop inclusion in mainstream clubs.
2. Provide and support opportunities for disabled players to access structured competitive football environments
3. Create and develop a skilled workforce to support opportunities in the disability football network.
4. To provide the opportunity for disabled children (aged 8 – 16 years) to take part in football related activities offering a pathway to competitive and recreational programmes within a safe and sustainable environment.
5. Increase the number of opportunities for females with a disability to participate
6. To support the increase in physical activity for children and adults with disabilities using football as an engagement tool. And to encourage healthier lifestyles through safe and structured exercise alongside advice about diet and nutrition.
7. Create coaching structures that allow disabled players to develop their skills and knowledge of football inspiring them to play at the highest possible level within the game
8. Raise awareness and the profile of the group
9. Effectively monitor and evaluate the provision and structures for disabled football players
To do this and ensure its sustainability a dedicated resource is required, who can coordinate and drive the group forward. This resource will establish and forge greater links with partners and develop closer links with clubs / schools and leagues to provide more localised opportunities.
The Football Development Team are keen to support any club wishing to become more accessible to people with disabilities or wishing to establish a disability football team within the club.
For more information on disability football please contact the Football Development Team.