The Paralympics & Workplace Inclusivity

Since the first official Paralympic Games in 1960, held in Greece, the games have grown into the “second biggest sporting event in the world” [1], gaining widespread popularity.  Starting from humble beginnings in 1948, featuring 16 wheelchair athletes, from Stoke Mandeville hospital, who took part in archery [1], the Paralympics have become part of our lives every 4 years.

Fast forward to 2024, and over 4,000 athletes participated in 549 events across two action packed weeks! [2]

This year’s Paralympics rode on the back of the highly successful Olympic games, both held in Paris.  The transition between the two games was seamless, with accessibility clearly being at the forefront of their organiser’s minds.  From the medal podiums being wheelchair accessible in every event to the presence of sign language interpreter Langues des Signes Français (LSF) during the Opening and Closing ceremonies, it was evident that inclusion was a top priority.

From the perspective of the British audience, Channel 4 hosted these brilliant games, and it was clear that they had accessibility at the front of their mind when producing their broadcast.  Right from the start, their commitment was clear, using a range of new presenters who have a variety of disabilities, including Rose Ayling-Ellis and Jodie Ounsley, both of whom are deaf, Billy Monger, who is a double amputee, and Ellie Simmons, a 5-time gold medallist in the Paralympics; as well as many more.

Further to this, with Rose Ayling-Ellis, the Channel 4 team put support in place to aid their first deaf sports presenter do her job to the best of her ability.  She was provided with a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter, visible both to her and on camera during broadcasts. Additionally, a BSL interpreter was shown at the bottom of the screen throughout the live events, ensuring the broadcast was accessible to everyone.

What does this mean for your businesses?

While not every business has the budget to provide full-time BSL interpreters, the Paralympics and Channel 4 have shown that small, thoughtful adaptations can make a huge difference. Simple changes can create a more inclusive workplace, enabling people with physical and cognitive disabilities to thrive.

This can be as simple as installing a ramp where there is a small step or putting braille signs on the room names to help those with poorer vision.

These are small actions, but they can have a significant impact on someone’s ability to navigate the workplace with ease.