Nottinghamshire Paralympic gold medallist Richard Whitehead hopes to get more disabled people out running by expanding a specialist support scheme.
The foundation set up by the world record holder first launched the Supported Runner Programme for disabled runners in 2025.
It matches people with trained runners who can offer specialist help including encouragement, pacing, navigation, and practical or emotional support for longer events including marathons.
In 2026 the programme is expanding into shorter distances and community runs to reach more people.
Whitehead said: “Starting the Richard Whitehead Foundation has been very important to me and I’m incredibly proud of what we have achieved so far and excited for everything that is to come.”
Alongside the running programme, the foundation runs inclusive events, like its annual ‘Run with Rich’ event, and campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of accessible sport, ensuring everyone has the chance to move, compete, and have fun.
Reflecting on his journey and the difference his charity has made, Whitehead said: “I feel so proud of the miles I’ve run, but I’m even prouder of the impact my journey has, showing people that with the right support and barriers removed, anything is possible.
“I know the power of visibility, and I’ve seen how someone like me who lives with a very physical disability, can inspire others to believe in their own potential.”
Richard, 49, was born with a double through-knee congenital amputation, but was fitted with prosthetic blades and took up running.
He went on to win Gold in the T42 200m at the London 2012 Paralympics and defended the title four years later in Rio. He now runs marathons, setting a world records for athletes with bilateral knee amputations.
Also a committed campaigner, his foundation aims to increase the number of disabled people taking part in sport.
More than 3,000 people have been helped by the foundation since 2021, including through the Supported Runner Programme.
According to Sport England, people with disabilities are almost twice as likely to be physically inactive than those without a disability.
Recent data published by the Office for National Statistics also suggests almost a quarter of the population (22–25 per cent) report experiencing a disability or mental health condition, while one in ten adults in Nottingham live with a disability.
Disabled people can also face a hostile reality when it comes to participation in sport.
Ongoing cuts to local council funding can limit the availability of specialist sessions, trained staff, and adapted equipment.
Inaccessible venues, poor transport links, and a lack of clear information can also make it difficult for people to attend activities regularly.
For some, long waiting lists and limited session times reduce choice and flexibility, while negative attitudes or a lack of awareness around disability can create unwelcoming environments.
Liz Silva works for Nottinghamshire Disabled People’s Movement, a campaign group calling for improvements to better meet disabled people’s needs, targeting issues like accessible transport, safe environments, welfare rights and public services cuts.
Silva said: “Things have improved somewhat over the past 20 years, but disabled people remain among the most vulnerable in society.
“Being unable to fully participate in everyday aspects of life has a profound impact on physical and mental health.
“There are many seemingly small, everyday issues that often go unnoticed, yet disproportionately affect disabled people, such as poorly parked e-bikes, taxi drivers charging extra for guide dogs, inaccessible pavement designs, and the lack of sign language interpreters.”
Despite the limitations, there are still a number of facilities in Nottingham offering a range of classes, accessibility and one-to-one training for people with disabilities.
Young people aged eight to 20 can take part in disability football at Aspley YMCA, while Nottingham Hoods Wheelchair Basketball Club welcomes players of all ages at Ellis Guildford School.
The University of Nottingham provides highly accessible sports facilities at the David Ross Sports Village, including lifts, hoists, changing places facilities and accessible gym equipment, with other venues also offering clear access guides.
Active Nottingham centres across the city provide accessible activities, with some locations such as John Carroll offering sensory rooms.
For racquet sports, Nottingham Tennis Centre runs dedicated sessions for learning disability, visually impaired and wheelchair tennis.
To find out more about the supported runner programme, visit whitehead.foundation/need-a-support-runner.
