New plans will help more people discover, play and stay involved in wheelchair rugby
More people playing wheelchair rugby, stronger clubs, better support for participants and more opportunities to compete are at the heart of two new strategies launched by Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby.
The new Recruitment Strategy and Wheelchair Rugby Fives Strategy have been shaped by feedback from the GBWR community and set out how the sport will continue to grow over the next three years.
Earlier this year, players, volunteers, coaches, officials, parents and club representatives shared their experiences through GBWR’s national Recruitment and Engagement Survey and a dedicated Wheelchair Rugby Fives consultation.
Thank you to everyone who took part. Your insight has played a vital role in shaping the future direction of wheelchair rugby.
What We Heard
Across both surveys, people highlighted the passion, community and inclusive environment that make wheelchair rugby so special.
You also identified several challenges that can make it harder for people to join or stay involved in the sport, including:
- Access to equipment
- Awareness of wheelchair rugby and referral opportunities
- Travel and cost barriers
- Classification challenges
- Limited opportunities in some areas of the country
The feedback showed that first impressions matter. Welcoming clubs, positive early experiences, supportive environments and visible role models all play an important role in helping people start and continue their wheelchair rugby journey.
Growing Participation
The new Recruitment Strategy focuses on helping more people discover wheelchair rugby and supporting them to become long-term participants.
The strategy prioritises:
- High-quality first experiences
- Supporting clubs to recruit and retain players
- Reducing barriers such as equipment, travel and cost
- Building stronger local partnerships
- Creating clearer routes into the sport
The aim is simple: make it easier for more people with permanent physical disabilities to find, try and enjoy wheelchair rugby.
Developing Wheelchair Rugby Fives
Alongside the Recruitment Strategy, GBWR has launched its first dedicated Wheelchair Rugby Fives Strategy.
Wheelchair Rugby Fives plays an important role in growing participation, developing clubs and creating competitive opportunities for people with permanent physical disabilities who may not be eligible for the Paralympic discipline.
The strategy focuses on:
- Increasing competition opportunities
- Strengthening player pathways
- Improving understanding and confidence in classification
- Growing the workforce
- Raising awareness of WR5s across Great Britain
The goal is to ensure more people have access to meaningful opportunities to play, compete and develop within the sport.
Read the Strategies
Forward Together
Both strategies support GBWR’s wider vision, Forward Together, and share a commitment to making wheelchair rugby more accessible, inclusive and sustainable for future generations.
Most importantly, they are focused on people.
Whether you’re discovering wheelchair rugby for the first time, returning to sport, volunteering at your local club or competing nationally, these strategies are designed to help create more opportunities to get involved and thrive within the wheelchair rugby community.
Get Involved
Want to try wheelchair rugby?
Find your nearest club and discover how you can become part of one of the most inclusive and exciting sports in Great Britain.
Email: iwanttoplay@gbwr.org.uk
