Inclusion is not a trend, it’s a necessity. And when it comes to sport, creating spaces where everyone can participate, regardless of ability, is more important than ever. The RESTART project, co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme, worked in Portugal, Spain, and Poland to make aquatic sports more accessible for people with disabilities. But its impact didn’t stop at the waterline.
If you're a coach, club manager, volunteer, or local policymaker wondering how to start making your sport environment more inclusive, this guide is for you. Here are five simple and proven steps inspired by the RESTART experience that can help you turn intention into action.
1. Train Your Team – Awareness Comes First
Inclusion starts with people. One of RESTART’s first priorities was to train instructors and volunteers on how to work with participants with disabilities.
This includes:
- Understanding different types of disabilities
- Using inclusive language and communication techniques
- Creating psychologically safe environments
Tip: You don’t need to become an expert overnight. Start with a short workshop or online module and invite local disability organizations to contribute.
2. Adapt the Equipment and Environment
RESTART partners learned that you don’t always need expensive equipment to make a difference.
Small adaptations go a long way:
- Stable paddleboards and tandem kayaks
. Modified seating or grips
- Clear signage and accessible changing areas
Tip: Involve participants in designing what they need. They’re the best experts on their own experience.
3. Build Local Partnerships
Every successful RESTART pilot involved partnerships with local associations, schools, or municipalities. These groups helped identify participants, share venues, and support logistics.
Tip: Reach out to local disability associations or social service centers. Many are looking for inclusive opportunities to offer their members.
4. Focus on Participation, Not Performance
RESTART was about participation and inclusion, not competition. Sessions were designed to create fun, safe, and empowering experiences.
No pressure to “perform” or achieve.
Mixed-ability groups where everyone could contribute
Celebrating small wins and firsts (first time on water, first paddle stroke, etc.)
Tip: Promote your sessions as social, nature-based, and community-centered.
5. Use What RESTART Built – Free Tools for You
The RESTART project created open-access resources to help others:
- Compendium of Good Practices – see what worked in Portugal, Spain, and Poland
- Communication Toolkit – inclusive promotion tips and templates
- Recommendations Manual – a short, practical guide to replicate the model
Tip: Download them from the official RESTART website and share them with your team.
Final Thought!
Start Small, Start NowInclusion isn’t about doing everything at once. It’s about starting, listening, and improving.
As RESTART showed, a single adapted session can change someone’s life.
You don’t need to be perfect. You need to be open.
Because in the end, inclusive sport isn’t just about who plays. It’s about who feels they belong.