Law Firm Supports Teenager As Part Of Disability Sport Campaign

A talented teenage para-athlete from Penzance who dreams of representing Great Britain at the Tokyo Paralympics in 2020 has received a funding boost from national law firm Irwin Mitchell as part of its ongoing commitment to back disability sport.

Abigail Birch, 15, who has a rare form of dwarfism, competes in the F41 classification for people with short stature and is ranked number one in the UK in events including shot put, discus and javelin.

With her sights firmly set on representing Team GB when she reaches the required age of 16, she has now received a £500 grant from Irwin Mitchell which will ensure she is able to continue to attend major competitions in the UK and abroad.

The law firm has provided the funding as part of its ongoing Don’t Quit, Do It initiative, which aims to highlight the benefits of disability sport and provide support to emerging talent in a range of disciplines. The campaign is backed by multiple gold medal-winning Paralympian Hannah Cockroft MBE.

Expert Opinion

“Abigail is an incredible athlete who has overcome major obstacles to achieve so much at such a young age. She is a perfect example of the positive impact that disability sport can have on lives

“We wish her all of the best for the future and truly believe there are no limits to what she can achieve.” Julie Lewis - Partner

Abigail’s mother Meegen, 43, said: “We are so proud of everything that Abigail has achieved so far but are now focused on helping her go even further. This funding will help us secure her an international licence which will allow her to compete at major European events against older opposition. This will only help her development.

“Getting this support from Irwin Mitchell has truly been invaluable, particularly as it can be tough to gain funding when you live away from major cities and in rural communities. We are grateful for their support and it is fantastic to see such an organisation recognise the benefits of disability sport.”

The Don’t Quit, Do It grant programme from Irwin Mitchell offers individuals, disability sport charities and groups an opportunity to apply for help with the cost of training, equipment or participation in major events. Since its launch it has provided more than £50,000 to a range of different projects in the UK.

Irwin Mitchell is a proud supporter of disability sport and has partnerships with the England Amputee Football Association, Boccia England and a host of other related organisations. Furthermore, last year the firm was the Official Legal Services Provider of the World Para Athletics Championships in London and it is also an ongoing supporter of the Superhero Series held at Dorney Lake in Windsor.

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