About WheelPower
WheelPower, also known as the British Wheelchair Sports Foundation, is a national charity committed to enabling disabled people to engage in sports and lead active lives. Founded by the late Professor Sir Ludwig Guttmann, WheelPower is based at Stoke Mandeville Stadium, the birthplace of the Paralympic Movement. For over 75 years, it has been a driving force in wheelchair sports. Sir Ludwig pioneered the use of sport as an integral part of rehabilitation for Second World War veterans and, in 1948, organised a competition between sports clubs and hospitals to coincide with the London Olympic Games.
Inter Spinal Unit Games
WheelPower offers a wide range of sports and activities, from archery and athletics to wheelchair basketball and rugby. The charity also organises events such as the Inter Spinal Unit Games and National Junior Games, which have been hosted at Stoke Mandeville for over 30 years. These events cater to individuals at all levels, from first-timers to Paralympic medallists, promoting inclusion and participation in sport.
Andy Gilbert, GMC Member & Ana Vega, EA to the Group Chief Executive, The Hospital Saturday Fund, presenting a £10,000 grant to Martin Mc Elthatton, CEO, WheelPower.
Physical Activity Advisors Project
WheelPower’s Physical Activity Advisors (PAAs) play a vital role in supporting spinal injury patients during their hospital rehabilitation. Working closely with physiotherapy teams, PAAs use their regional knowledge to guide patients toward continuing physical activity and sport after discharge. As wheelchair users themselves, PAAs bring lived experience and a deep understanding of the challenges patients face. In the past year, they supported 449 spinal patients across seven locations: Stoke Mandeville, Stanmore, Salisbury, Liverpool, Wakefield, Cardiff, and Glasgow.
The Grant
The Hospital Saturday Fund awarded WheelPower a grant of £10,000 to help fund eight new Physical Activity Advisors. This funding will enable the charity to support newly disabled individuals in becoming more active, enhancing their physical and mental well-being, improving fitness, and experiencing the many benefits of regular exercise.
To find out more visit
www.wheelpower.org.uk/
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