The Government attaches great importance to the development of sports for persons with disabilities (PWDs). To enhance the support for participation in sports by PWDs, we commissioned a consultancy study on how to support athletes with disabilities (AWDs) and promote sports participation by PWDs in a more comprehensive manner. Upon completion of the consultancy study in mid-2016, we launched a public consultation. Based on recommendations of the consultancy report and comments received in the public consultation, we developed in collaboration with various stakeholders (including relevant disability “national sports associations”, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), the Hong Kong Sports Institute, etc.) a work plan for taking forward various initiatives in promoting disability sports.
In accordance with the work plan, we have implemented various measures by phases for supporting AWDs and promoting participation in sports by PWDs. One of the key measures is to launch the Elite Vote Support System for Disability Sports which provides AWDs with the opportunity of receiving full-time training and additional financial as well as programme support for elite disability sports. On the promotion of participation in sports by PWDs, the following key measures have been implemented –
- launching a dedicated webpage on the LCSD’s website to provide a one stop information platform on recreation and sports programmes for PWDs;
- launching priority venue booking arrangements and enhancing ancillary facilities to facilitate organisation of sports activities suitable for PWDs by participating organisations;
- introducing online and cross-district enrolment arrangements. With the launch of the SmartPLAY system, PWDs can also use mobile apps (My SmartPLAY App) and enrol at any LCSD’s District Leisure Services Offices and smart self-service stations at leisure venues for all recreation and sports activities organised by LCSD;
- launching a series of sports training programmes tailor-made for PWDs in the 18 districts by providing about 100 training programmes for some 1 400 PWDs with different disable category; providing about 110 tailor-made programmes for some 5 300 students from special schools; continuing to organise events specifically for PWDs in the Hong Kong Games;
- launching outreach recreation and sports programmes at workshops or centres for PWDs with the aim of helping PWDs develop a healthy sporting habit; and
- enhancing the training for coaches to strengthen their basic knowledge and practical skills so as to enable them to provide training for PWDs on sports activities in a safe and appropriate manner.