There is no doubt that the Paris Paralympics 2024 were spectacular. Not only, for the sheer level of sport and athleticism but as a break through into the world of disability. The Games highlighted the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in society as a whole. While the triumphs were undeniable, beyond the competition the event was a powerful platform sparking important conversations about the everyday challenges faced by disabled people.
As a double above-knee amputee, multiple gold medallist Richard Whitehead has called for improvements in NHS prosthetics stating that they are holding people back . He believes better prosthetics are vital for encouraging more amputees and the next generation’s athletes to engage in sport.
In 2021, he set up the Richard Whitehead Foundation which aims to inspire disabled people to take up sport.
On her way to London travelling to Paris to be part of the BBC Radio 5 Live team, 11-time Paralympic champion Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson had to ‘crawl off’ a train at London King’s Cross station when assistance failed to arrive for 20 minutes. After her train ordeal the Baroness called on the government to make a commitment to bring about real change, including improvements to the chaotic booking system and introducing penalties for ‘missed assists.’
So often disabled voices go unheard and those campaigning for change go unnoticed. Let’s hope that’s not the case with the issues being championed by these high profile Paralympians.
