Vital Funds From Irwin Mitchell Will Go Towards Specialist Equipment

A Swindon-based wheelchair basketball team has received a funding boost as part of national law firm Irwin Mitchell’s campaign to promote participation levels in disability sport.

Swindon Shock’s wheelchair basketball squad are set to use the donation to part-fund the purchase of a sports wheelchair which will be used by a number of players who regularly compete for the side.

The grant has been awarded as part of Irwin Mitchell’s Don’t Quit, Do It campaign which promotes the physical and psychological benefits of being involved in disability sports. The campaign is supported by multiple gold-medal winning Paralympian Hannah Cockroft MBE.

The club has received £500 Irwin Mitchell’s Disability Sports Grant Programme which is part of the Don’t Quit Do It campaign.

Expert Opinion

Through our work we have seen on numerous occasions how sport has been able to help our clients with rehabilitation following serious injury.

“Unfortunately, while there are over 12 million people with disabilities in the UK, only one in six actually takes part in sport regularly.

“Part of this is due to the lack of funding and availability of specialist equipment and, with that in mind, we hope these grants will help support individuals and sports teams so they can realise their true potential.

“Swindon Shock’s wheelchair basketball team are a great example of how important sport can be to those with disabilities, giving them a chance to both be active and enjoy the social side of such activities too.

“We are delighted to provide this donation and hope it helps the team further develop its work.

“Disability should not be a barrier to sport.” Deborah Rose - Partner

Charities, individuals and groups involved in inclusive sport are eligible to apply for money to help with the cost of training, buying specialist equipment or taking part in special events. The programme has already given out £50,000 to projects across the UK.

Ben Humphrey of Swindon Shock, said: “At Shock we like to provide opportunities for all people and aim to encourage fun, participation and sportsmanship to help build the confidence of those participating.

“Thanks to its kind donation, Irwin Mitchell has given the team a huge boost.”

Irwin Mitchell is a proud supporter of disability sport and has partnerships the England Amputee Football Association, Boccia England and a host of other related organisations.

The law firm was also the Official Legal Services Provider of the World Para Athletics Championships London 2017 at the London Stadium in July last year, while it also supported the one-day Superhero Series event held at Dorney Lake in Windsor in August.

Read more about Irwin Mitchell's Don't Quit Do It campaign.