Playing Through the Heat: The Unique Challenges of Disabled People

A recent survey conducted by Scope's Lived Experience Research Panel has highlighted the significant physical and financial impact that heatwaves can have on disabled people. Among 411 respondents, 29% reported concerns about increasingly hot weather, while 41% said they were worried about both extreme heat and cold conditions. Importantly, the effects of high temperatures are not limited to a single impairment group, with articles reporting difficulties across physical, sensory and learning disabilities.

Research featured in a recent commentary by the Gatorade Sports Science Institute further demonstrates the challenges faced by disabled people when participating in sport and physical activity during hot weather. For individuals with spinal cord injuries, thermoregulation can be particularly difficult. Reduced sweating, altered blood flow and challenges with fluid retention and distribution can make exercising safely in warm conditions much more complicated.

However, the impact of extreme heat extends beyond the activity itself and can affect access to sport and recreation opportunities. A recent BBC report highlighted the additional logistical challenges disabled people experience during periods of hot weather. For example, guide dogs may be unable to work safely in extreme temperatures, limiting independent travel. Similarly, wheelchairs can overheat, while battery-powered mobility equipment may lose charge more quickly, reducing travel distances. For people with learning disabilities, there can be further challenges in recognising, communicating and responding to symptoms of overheating. The charity, Mencap, has emphasised the importance of ensuring that appropriate support is available to help individuals stay safe during periods of prolonged hot weather.

With the high temperatures experienced during the summer of 2026, these issues present a significant challenge for organisations delivering sport and physical activity opportunities across the disability community. As a result, it is essential that coaches, volunteers, carers and activity providers understand the practical steps that can help participants remain safe, comfortable and active. Simple measures can make a meaningful difference. Portable fans, cooling sprays and easy access to water can help individuals who may find it more difficult to regulate their body temperature. Regular wellbeing checks are also important, particularly for those who may struggle to communicate when they are becoming overheated or unwell.

In addition, providing accessible home-based activity options can help remove some of the barriers created by hot weather. Campaign ambassador for No Limits 2026, Ella Beaumont, offers a range of online workout videos specifically designed for disabled participants, enabling people to exercise safely and comfortably from home when travelling during the heat becomes increasingly difficult. Her workouts with WheelPower are also available on the Moving More website, alongside many other online sessions.

While exercising in hot conditions can present additional risks for disabled people, with the right support and appropriate adaptations it is still possible to participate safely. As periods of extreme weather become more common, ensuring that inclusive sport and physical activity opportunities remain accessible for everyone will be of growing importance.

Reference Articles:

New survey shows impact of heatwaves on disabled people | Disability charity Scope UK

Thermoregulatory Challenges In Para-Sport: Current Perspectives - Gatorade Sports Science Institute

Disabled in a heatwave: 'We're talking about survival' - BBC News

Mencap issues extreme heat warning, urging early action to protect people with a learning disability | Mencap