Disability History Month
There are over 14 million people that are currently living in the UK with a disability. This year’s theme revolves around the idea of “Transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world”. The United Nations specifically choose this subject matter as they wished to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and wellbeing of persons with disabilities. This year’s theme also contains three subtopics:
- Innovation for disability inclusive development in employment
- Innovation for disability inclusive development in reducing inequality
- Innovation for disability inclusive development: sport as an exemplar case
As we continue to shine a light on Disability History Month, we would like to take the opportunity to spotlight the importance of the latter subtopic and highlight one of our own sportsmen Rio, member and Charity Officer of JMSU's student-led Athletics team.
LJMU Sports Scholar Rio Boothe is an extraordinary example of how inclusion and diversity in sport can help provide a sense of belonging and provide a safer space for those with disabilities. Alongside Rio’s undergraduate study and being the Charity Officer for LJMU’s Athletics Team, he is a National Level Track and Field Athlete – competing in the T37 disability category due to his disability of Right-Side Hemiplegia.
Rio explained that he was the subject of name calling and was bullied at school, which made him “care too much about what people thought and how people perceived” him.
“I should have started earlier with my athletics and not really cared what people think of me”.
Since starting Atheletics Rio has made such a positive and successful journey as an athelete, and now refuses to let his disability get the better of him. Rio told us that - “Sport has had a significant impact on my life, it has given me the confidence to embrace my CP and just not worry about what other people are thinking or saying. Due to training, I have noticed the strength in my right side has gotten a lot better. Also, through my training at both Manchester Harriers and through my university, I have a great network of people who are constantly helping me, giving me advice and tips on how to improve my technique and how to manage during/after a race and an intense training session.”
We would like to remind all to be mindful of all disabilities, embrace inclusion and take the advice of Rio: “Just go for it, because if you don’t you will never know what your true potential is.”
Why don't you check out one of our many sports and societies groups today - we also have a Disabled Students' Community for you to meet new people and get involved in our activity.
JMSU and LJMU are always striving to make sure your voices are heard and you are getting the best opportunities as a student here. Please take the time to complete the following survey and let us know your feedback as to whether we can create a more inclusive environment for everyone.
