Accessing the outdoors with disabilities - Lucy finds out more

Two recent articles have caught our eye. Firstly, a British Medical Journal article reported that exercise is more effective than drug treatment among stroke patients; and, secondly, a report in the Independent that questioned the priorities of GPs in promoting exercise despite fresh air being hailed as a “wonder drug”.

These articles highlight the benefits of exercising and spending time outdoors, yet all too often the simple logistical challenges of real life seem to get in the way, and the reality is those challenges are commonly all the greater for those living with disabilities.

Times, however, are changing. One striking example is that of the British Mountaineering Council (BMC) who, in a bid to ensure that outdoor activities should be inclusive for all, last month held their inaugural Disability Symposium at the Calvert Trust in the Lake District. Eager to learn more, Lucy went along for the weekend.

The symposium was attended by a variety of professionals, ranging from outdoor activity instructors to support workers. Whilst challenging ideas of disability, the weekend gave practical tips and a greater understanding of the opportunities for working with disabled people in the outdoors. Lucy’s highlights included:

A workshop on Coaching Disabled Climbers, which provided some useful tips for disability sports training, encouraging us to coach the athlete not the disability
A session entitled “Making sense of climbing and hill-walking for people with complex multi-sensory impairments” looked at how accessing the outdoors does not have to be just about adrenaline-fuelled adventure – it can be as simple as you make it
A presentation on “Autism: it’s not like you think” gave a fascinating insight into the world of those with autistic spectrum disorders and how to support them

Lucy also particularly enjoyed an inspirational evening presentation by Jamie Andrews on his story of becoming a quadruple amputee and his incredible achievements in the outdoors since (not least climbing Mount Kilimanjaro!). So lots of inspiration, food for thought, and good ideas to take back to clinical practice; Lucy is looking forward to incorporating what she has learnt into rehabilitation with her patients.

For more inspiration on accessing the great outdoors with disabilities, you can visit the following sites:

Photo from The BMC website (https://www.thebmc.co.uk/the-bmcs-first-ever-disability-symposium)

Reviews

"We have used SP Therapy Services for around 6 years. They provide an excellent service. Our Physiotherapist, Jane has been an amazing support to our son with the various techniques she uses to encourage him to undertake his physio for his cerebral palsy. Following an operation last year, his programme was adapted accordingly and his mobility has improved. Jane has continued to look at different methods to keep him engaged with his exercises, using dance, darts, Nintendo switch which has kept him enthusiastic. We would be happy to recommend SP Therapy, they definitely provide an efficient, effective and reliable service."
Lynne Hush

"The team at SP Therapy Services are always professional and understand the need for client centred goals . It has been a pleasure to have Rebecca's support to enable one of her clients to connect with me and engage in Equine Facilitated learning sessions. Their support is much appreciated ."
Sarah Squires Grimbleby

"The physio team at SP Therapy Services are life enhancers. Not only are they excellent professionals- true experts in what they do, but they are also advocates, champions, and guardians of wellbeing.
My physio Jane has been particularly supportive of me and has helped me understand my own body, improve my strength and instil confidence. Jane does everything she can to help me improve but is flexible to real life challenges.
Juggling work with my energy variation isn’t always straightforward but Jane adapts each session as needed. And I’ve found every team member are all very good and caring.
I doubted whether going back to physio would do any good- but SP teams are the best of the best and made me so grateful to have access to such excellence. Would highly recommend."
C D

"I was diagnosed with MS twenty years ago. Early on, I was advised 'physiotherapy will really help you'. Luckily, SP Therapy Services came to my rescue. They have never let me down, it has been easy to book appointments, and the quality of the sessions is excellent. Speaking to a professional who understands the condition, assess my needs, and comes up with a treatment plan for each appointment is priceless. Many, many thanks to Jane R, and the rest of the team."
Samantha Henthorn

"Susan Patterson at SP Therapy has supported Headway Salford for many years, and her dedication to the brain injury community is truly something special. She consistently goes above and beyond to make a difference for people living with brain injuries and the families supporting them.

Susan is the founder of the North West Brain Injury Forum, which has brought professionals and organisations together to improve support, understanding, and collaboration across the region. Her passion for raising awareness and improving services for those affected by brain injury shines through in everything she does.

Her commitment and hard work have rightly been recognised, including receiving the Headway Salford “Above and Beyond” Award. It’s a well-deserved honour for someone who gives so much of her time, knowledge, and compassion to others.

Susan is a true advocate for the brain injury community and a valued supporter of Headway Salford. People like Susan make a real difference, and the impact of her work continues to be felt by so many."
Sam Ashcroft

"SP Therapy Services have been a fantastic support to Headway Rotherham. Their visits to our group have made a real difference, especially through their engaging and accessible chair-based exercise sessions, which our members really enjoy and benefit from.

They are not only professional and knowledgeable, but also genuinely warm and encouraging, helping everyone feel comfortable and included. We are particularly grateful for their ongoing support in raising funds for our charity, which shows their commitment goes far beyond their sessions.

We highly value our partnership with SP Therapy Services and look forward to continuing to work together."
Sadie Bratt

"Very professional service and high quality of reports and communication to ensure best practice and outcomes for my clients."
Elaine O'Flaherty

"Excellent service! As always. I have worked with SP Therapy services now for close to 18 years and I rate them highly."
Linda Jooste

"I am delighted to endorse the team at SP Therapy Services. They consistently provide exceptional therapy and support their practice with sound, detailed documentation, which always arrives in a timely manner. The friendly clinicians are a credit to this fabulous company and it is evident that they always keep their patients at the centre of everything they do."
Janet Penny

"SP Therapy Services has supported Greater Manchester Spinal Injury Group for many years. Susan and Rebecca have demonstrated knowledge and skill and been adaptable to working in community settings. I would have no hesitation in recommending SP Therapy Services."
Greater Manchester Spinal Injury Group

"I just wanted to say a heartfelt thank you to Sue for everything she has done for our daughter who has FND.
Her patience, encouragement, and expertise have made such a difference, and we are truly grateful for the care that she has given to her ."
Julie Meara

"I referred one of my clients to SP Therapy Services for physiotherapy input. Jayne and the team have worked really hard to help my client meet and exceed their goals in a short period of time. They have provided regular updates and have been professional and empathetic at all times with my client and their family. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend their services."
Grace Heppinstall