British Blind Sport are proud to announce the release of their Visually Impaired Friendly Athletics resource to support blind and partially sighted people in track, field and road-running activities. The resource is the second in a series of educational resource produced by British Blind Sport, with more launching in the charity’s 40th anniversary year.
“The positive effects of participation in sport for a visually impaired person cannot be underestimated and we are aware that skilled coaches and teachers make all the difference in helping others achieve their goals” said Alaina MacGregor, British Blind Sport’s CEO.
Funded by Sport England, the VI Friendly Athletics resource enables coaches and parents to:
- Have a better understanding of the needs of people with a visual impairment.
- Apply their knowledge to meet the needs of blind and partially sighted people.
- Use fundamental communication skills to support visually impaired people’s needs.
British Blind Sport believes everyone has the right to participate in a sport of their choice. However, there are many barriers to overcome to allow those with a visual impairment to have the same opportunities as sighted people.
Coaches and volunteers play an important role in developing recreational activities across the country. The charity wants to ensure that the coaches have the knowledge to create an inclusive and accessible sporting environment for people with sight loss.
Developed in partnership with England Athletics and British Athletics, this extensive athletics resource includes information about:
- The fundamentals of sight loss.
- Advertising athletics events to blind and partially sighted people.
- How to guide visually impaired people in track, field and off-track situations.
- Health and safety considerations such as obstacles and traffic.
- Competitive athletics for people with sight loss.
Rt. Hon. David Blunkett MP commented in the resource: “These fantastic resources help to break down barriers to participation as well as assist and provide tips on how to make each sporting experience enjoyable for every visually impaired person.”
Get the VI Friendly Athletics resource
British Blind Sport’s VI Friendly Athletics resource is available in print, online and in a PDF format. You can access the resource via the British Blind Sport website: www.britishblindsport.org.uk/vi-friendly-athletics
For more information about British Blind Sport, please visit www.britishblindsport.org.uk, email info@britishblindsport.org.uk or call 01926 424247.
