As Learning Disability Awareness Week begins, Special Olympics Great Britain (GB) is proud to release its 2024 Impact Report, showcasing a year of achievement, and inclusion for children and adults with intellectual (learning) disabilities through the power of sport.
In a landmark year that saw the charity host its first-ever National Winter Games — featuring alpine skiing and figure skating competitions in Folgaria, Italy — Special Olympics GB provided sporting opportunities to an impressive 12,666 athletes across the UK.
Central to this was the expansion of the Motor Activity Training Programme (MATP), which supported 10,110 individuals with profound and multiple learning difficulties or complex needs, offering inclusive access to sport where few opportunities existed before.
Across 100 grassroots clubs in England, Scotland, and Wales, Special Olympics GB delivered 75 competitions, which represents a 17 per cent increase on the previous year. The competitions spanned 20 sports, with six events gaining national status.
To enhance its sporting offer, 18 National Sports Advisors were appointed. These volunteer experts play a key role in developing training, coach education, and competitive pathways in the organisation’s most popular sports.
In football, Special Olympics GB was officially named a Disability Delivery Partner by The FA, supporting inclusive participation and the expansion of grassroots playing opportunities through initiatives such as Comets and Just Play events.
Off the field, Athlete Leadership continued to flourish. Since its launch in 2022, 83 athletes have completed leadership training, including 36 new graduates in 2024 alone. The year also marked the inaugural Athlete Leadership Forum and the democratic election of a new Athlete Leadership Team, with seven new members joining the group and Mitch Camp appointed as Chair.
Laura Baxter MBE, Chief Executive of Special Olympics GB, said “I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for the incredible progress we have made, thanks to the dedication of the athletes, volunteers, staff, partners and supporters. This year has been one of growth in a number of senses, resilience, and further transformation to ensure sustainability for the future.
Our inclusive programming continues to break down barriers, offering more opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to engage in sport. Whether on the track, in the pool, or on the court, our athletes and volunteers are demonstrating what it means to strive for excellence, and their stories continue to motivate us all.
“Special Olympics GB will continue to grow, innovate, and inspire through ambition with athlete and volunteer voice at the centre of developments supported by the unwavering commitment, knowledge and experience of volunteers, staff and partners. Together, we are proving that when we embrace inclusion, everyone wins.”