"Too often people take a risk approach to sport. We need to turn this on its head and take an asset based approach instead - framing risks in terms of the benefit of sport and in terms of autonomy, capacity and support." IMAS - Mixed Ability Sports
The prefix “dis” from the term disability seeks to define the limitation of a person because of their physical or mental impairment, disqualification, restriction or disadvantage.
During my time in association with people who are deemed to have ‘special needs’ here in Ireland I have always sought to remove such labels.
Yes, we must recognize the needs and supports that a person diagnosed with a physical, developmental, neurological and mental health may require.
But as important, if not more so, we must also actively support their rights and desires to enjoy life, true independence and the pursuit of the things that make them happy.
COVID19: This current pandemic has shown that much work remains to be done.