WheelPower
Who are WheelPower?
WheelPower is the national charity for wheelchair sport, based at Stoke Mandeville Stadium, the birthplace of the Paralympic movement.
The charity supports people of all ages with physical disabilities to lead healthier, more active lives through movement, activity, and sport. WheelPower aims to increase participation at all levels by tackling inequalities, improving accessibility, and removing barriers to engagement.
In partnership with National Governing Bodies, Active Partnerships, and local sports clubs, WheelPower provides and adapts programmes for children, young people, and adults with physical disabilities. They organise Sport Events across the country to help individuals with mobility impairments get involved in physical activities, promoting independence and well-being.
To support inclusion, WheelPower offers an 'Engaging Wheelchair Participants in Sport' online training course. This course helps develop confidence in working with physically disabled people, offering practical examples across different sports.
Primary Settings
WheelPower hosts events across the UK, including one-day Sport Festivals, which are a great starting point for children aged 5+ with a physical disability. Participants rotate through five different sports in 40-minute sessions, led by experienced coaches -many of whom are local - providing a direct pathway into ongoing participation.
Secondary Settings
The WheelPower National Junior Games is an annual sports event held at Stoke Mandeville Stadium, the birthplace of the Paralympic movement. Designed for children aged 11-18 with physical disabilities, the event offers a safe and welcoming environment where participants can explore different sports through taster sessions, coaching, and competitions across various age groups.
The residential event gives young people the opportunity to try a variety of wheelchair sports while being coached by qualified professionals. The Games encourage participants to develop their skills and take on fun personal best challenges.
Equipment Needed
- Sport wheelchairs
- Active hands
- Floor basketball hoops
- Boccia ramps
- Curling push sticks