Goalball UK work with blind and partially sighted people through the medium of the Paralympic sport of goalball. Goalball UK are a registered charity and the National Governing Body for the sport. Participants generally fall into two categories: those that have been visually impaired or blind since birth and those that have become visually impaired as a result of illness or an accident. Our participants often have mental health issue they have to manage on a long term basis. This can lead to isolation and withdrawal from social situations, compounding the already significant daily life challenges faced by our beneficiaries. 

The nature of our participants' disability means that they are disadvantaged in their participation in physical activity as many sports do not allow them to join in. It is acknowledged by Sport England that visual impairment is one of the biggest barriers to participation. Goalball provides an inclusive experience that allows participation in sport and also situations where social interaction is a major consideration. 

We support people with a visual impairment by providing them the opportunity to play our inclusive sport within a variety of structures. An unintended consequence of this has been the  ‘Goalball Family’ being formed, which is a supportive network that helps all involved strengthen social networks. The friendships that have formed through our sport provide valuable peer support to a group of people who are often forgotten. The social value of our work cannot be underestimated. As a result we are committed to providing and supporting activity outside of the sports hall to nurture these opportunities.

Goalball UK's General fundraising has been hit very hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of our fundraising events have been cancelled and we are  struggling to maintain services because of this huge reduction in income. While I appreciate there are so many charities please spare a little for Goalball UK who provide fantastic support to people who are blind or partially sighted through the sport of goalball.