Judith Takes Boccia To Birmingham

"My first workshop was on inclusion, where participants discussed what made us feel included as children, and what we need now. People came up with similar thoughts no matter their background, and it prompted me to remember being left handed at school and how in a number of areas teachers didn’t know how to teach me writing, knitting and crafts. It led to a good discussion about being prepared and trained to include everyone in activities and not to dismiss something as ‘too difficult’ but strive to give everyone the best experience, whatever you are doing. We also spoke about how you have to be willing to be vulnerable at times to truly come alongside others.

"My second workshop was on internships, and it was really interesting to meet so many visually impaired people of working age and hear about barriers they had faced and accomplishments despite these. It was sad to hear that so many external companies when interviewing for positions were surprised at the skill level of VI applicants. One participant from a VI organisation said they had employed a VI intern because “if we aren’t even increasing our own percentage of VI workforce, how can we complain at other organisations and expect them to be doing more?” 

"The second day started with a talk from the Villa Vision team, which is part of the Aston Villa Football Foundation. They go in to schools to deliver workshops on the importance of eye tests and eye care. They also carry out eye tests and dispense free glasses to children. They are seeing a change in behaviours regarding wanting eye tests, wearing glasses, reducing screen time and spending time outdoors. They are now sharing their experience with other football foundations as football is such a strong connector to children.

"After watching everyone else present finally it was my turn for my Boccia workshop… I wasn’t feeling any pressure being part of the last workshop session of the conference after all the fantastic ones I had been to! 

"Prior to my workshop I had met a couple of people who had been keen to attend our workshop but told it was full. I’m hopeful that people will reach out through the delegate list contact form if needing further information but it was a boost to hear that people were interested in the sport, especially as I had never heard of it a year ago! 

"I was joined by Alison Shaw, Education and Learning Manager at Scottish Disability Sport (SDS being the governing body for Boccia in Scotland) in delivering the workshop. We introduced the participants to the game of Boccia through participation in matches and target skills practice. As usual it got a little bit competitive and exciting, particularly when a couple of severely sight impaired participants did particularly well on the skills practice. Alison was a bit nervous of the fact we had a number of guide dogs but as ever they were on their best behaviour and not chasing the balls around the floor as she feared. 

The most pleasing part of the workshop was that people had attended looking to consider offering Boccia in their organisations/communities, not simply to find out more about the sport. One of our participants was sharing contact details with another to help support each other getting started. The last part of the workshop discussed delivery particular to the participants own venues, and tips on equipment sourcing and players enjoyment. It really did feel they were off to get started - one delegate had sourced our sensory boccia balls online by the time I had tidied away the room at the end!"