People from around the world will gather in Worcester to reimagine culture, health and wellbeing through disability sport.
A two-day conference will take place at the University of Worcester Arena on July 13 and 14, bringing together researchers, practitioners, advocates, and professionals from across the sports and physical activity sector.
The event will explore how disabled sport can drive positive cultural change and promote greater inclusion.
Rebecca Foster MBE, principal lecturer in adapted physical education at the University of Worcester and organiser of the conference, said: “This conference is for everyone who works in the sports or physical activity sector and for anyone interested in creating more inclusive cultures.
“We’ve already seen bookings coming in from people representing a host of local businesses who are keen to find out how disability-friendly spaces and practices can be developed and sustained.”
University of Worcester Arena (Image: John Coleman)
The conference, Disability Sport: Reimagining Physical Culture, Health and Wellbeing, will feature research presentations, discussion spaces, and networking opportunities designed to spark collaboration and reflection.
Keynote speakers include Professor Ian Brittain, an internationally recognised expert in disability and Paralympic sports, and Gary Callier, a former Royal Engineer who has represented Team UK at the Invictus Games.
Ms Foster said: “The diversity of voices and experiences at the conference will give attendees an incredible opportunity to mix with people they wouldn’t ordinarily get to spend time with.
“It’s a chance to listen, learn, and reflect on disability and inclusive participation in sport in ways that can be taken back into clinical, community and professional settings.”
The conference will take place in the Joel Richard’s Suite at the University of Worcester Arena.
Ms Foster said: “The University Arena is a prestigious state-of-the-art building which lives and breathes disability culture.
“It’s very apt that the conference should be held in a venue which was designed to ensure everyone who comes through the door feels valued in a space which was created with their needs in mind.”
Conference tickets are available for either one or two days through the University of Worcester website.
A generous discount is available for students at the University of Worcester.