Written by Kelly Heathcoate, IMAS Business Manager
Our vision is to radically change the way we think of, join in, and enjoy sport, leading to a fairer and more equal society.
International Mixed Ability Sports (IMAS) is a Community Interest Company promoting social inclusion, personal development, and wellbeing for the most disadvantaged groups in our communities. Through using peer education and practical participation in sports as change agents.
Our vision is to radically change the way we think of, join in, and enjoy sport, leading to a fairer and more equal society. IMAS was founded in 2014 from the lack of opportunities for disabled people to play competitive sports in mainstream community clubs without being separated, segregated or classified, and has now become a movement that supports the creation of safe, welcoming and non-judgmental environments for all those who experience barriers to participation in sport and society. Our values are upheld by the Mixed Ability Manifesto.
We work with a group of ‘experts by experience’ who have gone through a journey to become a part of their local clubs and have become community champions as well as IMAS trainers. Together, we co-produce and co-deliver educational resources to community clubs, coaches, and partners such as healthcare professionals, educational institutions, as well as third sector and private organisations.
Our activities challenge the medical and charitable models and offer a sustainable route to tackle stigma and prejudice around disability and diversity more in general through education and intergroup contact, promoting equal status, cooperation, common goals, and positive change in attitudes and behaviours.
We are always looking for new connections; whether you are a club wanting to become more representative of your local community by introducing Mixed Ability, a champion who has overcome barriers to participation and wants to share your story with us (or an ally of someone who has taken this journey), or an organisation who aligns with our values and wants to discuss ways we could work together.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us on contact@mixedabilitysports.org or take a look at our website at www.mixedabilitysports.org
Watch these videos to find out more:
What is Mixed Ability: https://youtu.be/MKFwP-lgXk0
Who are IMAS: https://youtu.be/SIAWVdcuLco