Research conducted by Specsavers has indicated that nearly a third of those living with visual impairments, hearing loss, mobility difficulties or social isolation are keen to participate in parkrun events. Across the UK, there are more than 1,400 weekly parkrun events where participants can run, walk or even wheel five kilometres completely free of charge.
Survey Reveals Lack of Awareness
Specsavers' survey of 2,000 individuals reveals that four in five people with accessibility needs are unaware of the existing support available at parkrun events, prompting the organisations to join forces to enhance inclusion. One in three (33%) who had not yet taken part in a parkrun stated they were still eager to give it a go, while one in five (21%) felt they were missing out on social connections and a sense of community by not attending.
A striking 49% agreed they would like to attend more parkruns but lacked the confidence to turn up unaccompanied. The findings also revealed that more than one in ten (13%) had not attended a parkrun due to concerns about arriving alone or having nobody to participate alongside them.
Similar Ability Groups Would Encourage Participation
Nearly one in three people (32%) would be more inclined to attend parkrun events if they could go with others of a similar ability.
Specsavers is launching a new pilot scheme this summer to tackle the barriers preventing people from feeling welcome at the weekly gatherings. The initiative seeks to develop practical solutions that are co-created and shaped by those who need them most.
Specsavers Chief Executive John Perkins said: "Parkrun already plays such an important role in bringing people together and supporting both physical and mental wellbeing. However our research shows that for some people, barriers around confidence, accessibility and social anxiety can still make that first step feel difficult. Through our partnership with parkrun, we want to help create an environment where more people feel supported, included and able to make it to the start line in a way that works for them. This pilot is about listening, learning and helping more people experience the sense of community that makes parkrun so special."
Parkrun's Commitment to Inclusion
Parkrun's health and inclusion lead Halima Khan commented: "Parkrun was created to bring people together in a positive, inclusive way to be active, social and outdoors. While more than 300,000 people take part in the UK each week, we want to ensure everyone who takes part will benefit. That is why we are excited to work with Specsavers to make better health more accessible. The pilot will allow us to better understand the barriers underrepresented groups face and help us ensure parkrun is as welcoming and accessible as it can be for everyone. This approach aligns beautifully with our recently announced health and inclusion strategy, which reinforces our shared commitment to breaking down barriers and enabling even more people to experience the benefits of parkrun."
Fiona, a focus group participant with hearing loss, said: "It is great to see Specsavers and parkrun are recognising people like me need extra support to feel included in everyday activity that some might not find easy. The idea of turning up in an environment where I am alone can be overwhelming and has kept me from attending previously. I'm looking forward to seeing how the pilot helps people like me find our stride at parkrun."
Background of the Partnership
Specsavers and parkrun revealed their collaboration back in March this year, pledging to press ahead with their joint efforts to make improved health more attainable for those requiring additional assistance. The alliance is said to represent a mutual dedication to inclusivity and valuing feedback from communities who wish to experience the physical and social advantages of participating in fitness activities.
