Activity Alliance Report highlights the value of activity for disabled people
On International Day of Disabled People (3 December), Activity Alliance released new research revealing the significant social value of disabled people being active and the societal cost of inequality. The report, building on Sport England’s recent findings, shows that supporting disabled people to be active could contribute £6,200 per person, per year to society. This is nearly equivalent to the social value of being employed.
Key Findings:
The key findings of the report can be summarised as follows:
- £6,200 social value per disabled person per year if meeting Chief Medical Officers’ (CMO) guidelines of 150+ minutes a week.
- £4,400 social value per person per year from light activity alone.
- The societal cost of inequality equates to a £10.9 billion ‘activity gap’.
Currently, disabled people or those with long-term health conditions are twice as likely to be physically inactive compared to non-disabled adults (41% vs 21% according to Sport England’s Active Lives Adult Survey 2022-23).
Only 43% of disabled people feel they have the chance to be as active as they want to be, compared to 69% of non-disabled people (Activity Alliance Annual Disability and Activity Survey 2023/24).
Active Norfolk’s Commitment to Inclusivity
At Active Norfolk, we are dedicated to ensuring that all disabled people feel they belong in sports and activities. Our work with initiatives like DRAGON’s On the Move supports leisure groups and sports clubs to become more aware of accessibility and make small changes that can have a big impact.
“We want to work in partnership to develop more inclusive opportunities for all across Norfolk. We have some great examples already but always more we can do. Work with us to showcase what you do and let us help you shout about it.“
Ellen Vanlint, Senior Development Officer, Active Norfolk
We appeal to any centres or clubs interested in improving their accessibility to invite us for a visit. We provide user-led feedback firsthand, increasing understanding of the barriers disabled people face and encouraging groups and individuals to speak up and get their voices heard. By working in partnership, we can drive positive change together.
Success Stories and Partnerships
We have successfully collaborated with various providers to enhance accessibility and inclusivity in sports and activities. Some of our notable partners include:
- Alive
- Everyone Active
- Sportspark
- Places for People
These partnerships have been instrumental in creating more inclusive environments where disabled people can thrive.
Moving forward
This new insight from Activity Alliance strengthens our resolve to target more work towards supporting disabled people to get active. We encourage more providers to join us in this mission.
If you are a centre or club interested in making a difference, please reach out to us. Together, we can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of physical activity.