Boccia (pronounced bot-cha) is a Paralympic indoor sport similar to bowls with no Olympic equivalent.  It is a target ball sport which tests both muscle control and accuracy.  From a seated position (and therefore ideal for wheelchair users) players propel balls to land close to a white marker ball – the jack. If you are unable to grasp and propel a ball you can use a ramp.

For more information about where you can play see Boccia England.

Paddle-Ability Providers has details of clubs and providers throughout the UK that offer dedicated support for disabled paddlers.  Enter your postcode on their website and the distance you are willing to  travel to see what could be on offer for your child.

You could also approach any clubs near you to see what they can offer.

With a CEA Card (Cinema Exhibitors’ Association Card). anyone age 8 years and over who receives Disability Living Allowance (DLA), can get one free ticket for a person accompanying them. This works nationally. The card currently costs £6 a year.

If your child wants to use a computer for playing games, they may need some adaptations to be able to use one independently. Many children find that touch screen tablets work well as they are small, light, sensitive and easy to manage. A ‘light touch’ mouse may also be worth trying.

See also: Assistive Technology on this page.

Wheels for All – a nationally recognised programme for disabled children and adults and those with differing needs. There are 50 centres equipped with specially adapted cycles and trained leaders. Families are welcome to be involved.

Para Dance UK – a charity and the national governing body for Para Dance Sport in the UK.

British Disabled Angling Association –  for information on accessible fishing.

Freedom in the Air – organises regular flying days for young people.

Grassroots Disability Football – for information about footballing opportunities for disabled people.

Level Playing Field – offers support, information and advice on a range of topics around access for disabled spectators This is offered to spectators, Clubs, Disabled Supporter Association’s, NGOs and others.

Wheelchair Football Association (WFA) – the governing body for Powerchair Football in England provides information on Powerchair Football and how to get involved.

The WFA say: ‘"in theory children can join powerchair football clubs at any age. From our perspective players could begin to take part in simple unopposed activity from 4 – 5 years old as long as appropriate safeguards and health and safety measures were in place."

Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) – uses horse riding and pony riding to provide therapy and fun all over the UK.

Sailability – the Royal Yatching Association’s national programme, enabling disabled people to try sailing and take part regularly. Sailing is open to anyone, no matter what age or disability. The network of approved Sailability sites have boats and facilities to cater for everyone.

Disability Snowsport UK – a disability ski and snowboard charity providing information.

Ski2Freedom – help people to find: the most suitable adaptive or assisted ski lesson; guide or sit-ski equipment; ideal ski resort and most appropriate place to stay.

To find out about getting your child involved, contact one of the following:

Lawn Tennis Association – for information on accessible tennis.

British Disabled Waterski and Wakeboard Association – offers ‘trying out’ activities with family and friends for all ages.

British Canoeing – for information on how people of all abilities can get involved.

Sailability – part of the Royal Yachting Association. Enables people of all abilities to participate in sailing.