Why One in Four Disabled Children Miss Out on School Sports – And How to Improve Inclusion

21st April 2026

Disabled Children and School Sports Participation in the UK

Towards the end of last year, a report entitled Play, Move, Belong: Active Futures for Young Disabled People highlighted the significant barriers which linger for young disabled people trying to access physical activity and sport. The study was supported by partners including Activity Alliance, Sport England, Youth Sports Trust, Access Sport, ParalympicsGB and the University of Loughborough. 

It looked at the experiences of all young people, those with disabilities and those without, while involving parents plus other carers. 

And it’s worth noting that more than one in 10 (12%) of the UK’s children are considered disabled according to the 2010 Equality Act, a rise of 7% from 10 years ago. 

Key Statistics on Physical Activity for Disabled Children

The research found that, while school was the most usual place where kids were active, only just over one in four (26%) of young disabled people said they could participate in sport and activity there fully and consistently. This compares with more than a third (38%) of their non-disabled peers. 

In a typical school week, 43% of disabled youngsters are classed as ‘less active’, compared with just under a third of their counterparts who do not have disabilities. Meanwhile, just 3% achieved the government guidelines of a daily hour of physical activity. 

What Are the Main Barriers to Sport for Disabled Children?

Yet the report also underlined a keen desire from young people to be more active, and to have appropriate support and opportunities. Interestingly, both those with disabilities and those without were equally likely to say that they wanted to move more, while their parents also share this goal. 

Other key findings include: 

• Attitudes, confidence and access all have key parts to play in restricting participation in physical activity. 
• Among older children, the activity gap is more acute, especially for girls with disabilities and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds
• Just 50% of disabled youngsters reported finding sport or activity easy (in contrast with 76% of their non-disabled peers) 
• Girls with disabilities are three times more likely to lack the confidence to be active (24% compared to just 8% of their non-disabled contemporaries) 

The chief executive of Activity Alliance Adam Blaze told journalists: 

“Being active is one of the most effective ways to improve health and wellbeing, and that’s just as true for young disabled people as it is for anyone else. This report highlights … the overwhelming appetite that young disabled people must be active. We all have a responsibility to ensure they feel they belong in sports and activities."

Meanwhile Youth Sport Trust CEO Ali Oliver added: 

“It’s incredibly concerning only one in four young disabled people feel they can always join in PE or school sports.” 

Why Inclusive School Sports Matter for Health and Wellbeing

Finally, the study shows that young people, understandably, want fun, inclusive activities and to participate both with disabled and non-disabled friends. However, some also want tailored sessions allowing them to work with others with shared experiences. 

Findings from the research will inform a three-year UK-wide research programme on which Loughborough University is taking the lead, and which launched in October 2025. It is working to gain greater insight into the barriers young disabled people face to physical activity. 

How an outdoor gym could boost participation in sport

Outdoor gyms include all kids, thanks to their removal of physical, social and sensory barriers. Outdoor exercise equipment can also be accessible, for example with wheelchair-friendly stations or low-level platforms plus varied grip heights. Kids have the chance to work out together, whatever their level of ability, in an inclusive, welcoming space which encourages social interaction. 

What’s more, outdoor settings offer a calming, natural environment which reduces stress and anxiety while helping to manage sensory needs. Confidence and social skills grow in a place that’s supportive and shared. 

Finally, activity in an outdoor exercise amenity offers tailored physical activity to improve motor skills, strength and body awareness. Outdoor gym equipment is designed to balance safety and security while still being challenging. Teachers can help by giving clear, detailed instructions and ensuring pupils feel confident in asking for help if they need it. 

Making School Sports Accessible for Every Child

At Fresh Air Fitness, we supply our award-winning outdoor gym equipment to schools to support students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). It suits all levels of ability and experience and schools have full access to instructional animations and ‘how to’ videos to support children and teaching staff gain confidence and get the best from the equipment. 

We are a full service outdoor gym company with zero outsourcing, from initial contact through to post-installation aftercare. Equally, check out our comprehensive programme of maintenance and warranties.