Lay summary
Being physically active – and remaining so across the life-course – is vital for physical and psycho-social health and wellbeing. Disabled young people have lower physical activity levels than non-disabled peers. While official government policies promote inclusion, many feel discriminated against and devalued in physical activity settings and identify ‘other people’s attitudes’ as barriers to positive experiences of participation in PE, sport and active recreation. Combining Q methodology and interactive workshops, this research will identify underlying ‘ableist’ attitudes, policies and practices which discriminate against disabled people, limiting their meaningful participation in sport and active recreation. In collaboration with sector stakeholders, the research will generate resources to raise awareness of ableist attitudes. These resources will be piloted in the field. The aim is to increase opportunities for disabled young people’s meaningful participation in PE, sport and active recreation to enhance wellbeing, reduce inequalities, and improve health outcomes across the life-course.