The inclusive basketball club that’s transforming lives in Manchester and beyond

It’s a bright Saturday at Manchester’s National Basketball Performance Centre, and the energy is contagious.

Teams from Manchester, Sheffield, Wales, London, and beyond are gathering for a day of basketball, but this isn’t just any competition.

The players on the court are athletes with intellectual disabilities, and this event—hosted by DOSportUK in partnership with Special Olympics GB and UPS—is much more than your average basketball competition.

It’s about empowerment, inclusion, and breaking down the barriers that often prevent people with disabilities from accessing sports.

DOSportUK

“We do these sessions across the country, but when everyone comes together, it’s just so joyful,” said Jen Molloy, a key figure at DOSportUK.

“It’s a brilliant day for the athletes, and for us. It’s not just about winning or losing—it’s about friendship, confidence, and belonging.”

DOSportUK, which stands for Disability Opportunities in Sport UK, was founded in 2017 by Jacob Eaton, a disability nurse from Luton who stayed in Manchester after university.

His vision was simple but powerful: to create inclusive sporting opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities, people who are often excluded from mainstream sports due to barriers like accessibility, lack of tailored programs, or simple misunderstanding.

“Jacob has always been incredibly passionate about the benefits of sports,” said Jen from DOSportUK.

“He doesn’t have a personal connection to intellectual disabilities, but he saw a gap and wanted to give people a chance to be themselves and enjoy some sport. ”

That gap, unfortunately, is wide.

People with intellectual disabilities often face multiple hurdles when trying to access sports.

From a lack of suitable facilities to programs that don’t accommodate their needs, many individuals are left without the opportunity to engage in physical activity—something so many of us take for granted.

DOSportUK is striving to change that.

At last Saturdays’ competition, about 80 participants from across the UK gathered to play basketball in a supportive, inclusive environment.

For many, it’s a rare opportunity to feel the thrill of competition and the camaraderie that team sports offer.

There are no age limits at DOSportUK, and the diversity of the players is testament to the organisations inclusive approach.

“We cater to people with learning difficulties, autism, and other intellectual disabilities,” said Jen.

“Mainstream sports often aren’t suitable, but our sessions offer social interaction and a real sense of belonging.”

That sense of belonging is perhaps the most transformative element of DOSportUK’s work.

As Jen explains, the benefits of participating in sports go far beyond physical fitness.

“Participants build friendships, improve their communication skills, and gain confidence. We’ve seen people become totally different, more confident versions of themselves after just a few sessions.”

What do the charity users say?

The heartwarming success of DOSportUK can be seen not just in the number of participants but in the personal experiences of those involved, from volunteers to players and their families.

“Their stories highlight the profound impact the organisation has on individuals’ lives, offering more than just a chance to play sports—it’s about community, growth, and belonging.

Colin Dunlop, a dedicated volunteer at the Chesterfield Sabers Disability Basketball Club, shared how fulfilling his role has been.

“What I love the most about volunteering is just coming every week, seeing the same people, seeing the joy on their face. It makes people who have learning disabilities or special needs feel human, I think.

“It’s a way of communicating and getting to know other people. It gives them the chance to play sport, learn something new, and be part of a team.”

For Louise Ratcliffe, a player at Chesterfield Sabers, the basketball club has been a transformative experience.

“I’ve been playing basketball for about a year and a half now. Before that, I had never played basketball before.

“I’m improving every day, and I want to go to the Olympics in three and a half years. It’s good for people with disabilities, not just physical but also hidden disabilities, to have somewhere to come. We all fit in together.

“We may not talk much, but we have a good laugh and play. It’s really cool.”

The benefits extend to families, as Alan, whose daughter Darcy attends sessions in Salford, attests.

“We decided to bring Darcy here because she has dyspraxia. We hoped it would help with her coordination and strength, areas where she has been struggling.

“Participating in sports has considerably helped Darcy. She is now more active, her imagination has been stimulated, and she enjoys meeting new people and playing basketball, which is all we ever wanted for her.

“The support and assistance from the staff are fantastic. I highly recommend you bring your child here; they’ll have a wonderful time. The fitness, coordination, and social skills they gain are invaluable.”

These testimonials show the transformative power of sport in building confidence, improving physical and mental well-being, and fostering friendships. DOSportUK’s work is not just about the game; it’s about giving people the tools to thrive both on and off the court.

Improving self esteem

For athletes with intellectual disabilities, many of whom have faced exclusion or isolation in other areas of their lives, finding a community where they are valued and celebrated can be life-changing. “The improvement in their self-esteem is incredible,” Jen shared.

“They form friendships and stay in touch outside of the sessions. It’s really heartwarming.”

One of the unique aspects of DOSportUK is its pathway to the Special Olympics.

Athletes who start in the organisations beginner sessions have the opportunity to progress, with some even competing at higher levels. But as Jen emphasised, “You don’t have to be an amazing player to take part. There’s room for everyone, no matter their skill level.”

Despite the tremendous success of the program, running an organisation like DOSportUK comes with challenges.

Funding is always a concern, with costs for hiring courts and paying coaches adding up quickly.

“We rely on volunteers, and while we do have some paid coaches, the competition for big funding is tough,” Jen admitted.

“Members pay a nominal fee, but we need more sponsors and partners to keep expanding.”

The vision for the future is big.

The future of DOSportUK

DOSportUK plans to expand its offerings across Greater Manchester and introduce more multi-sport sessions, including badminton, football, cricket, and boccia—a precision ball sport often played by athletes with physical disabilities.

These sessions are designed not only to offer physical fitness but also to foster a sense of community, something DOSportUK holds at the heart of everything it does.

“We want to give people the chance to experience the joy of sport, no matter their ability,” Jen said.

“It’s not just about exercise. It’s about connection, happiness, and giving people the opportunity to thrive.”

As the competition draws to a close, the players—some of whom arrived as strangers—leave with smiles on their faces and new friends by their sides. It’s a testament to the power of sport, and to organisations like DOSportUK that are paving the way for a more inclusive, connected world.

For those interested in joining or volunteering, DOSportUK welcomes anyone with a passion for inclusion and sport. “

We don’t ask for experience, just enthusiasm,” Jen said. “Everyone is welcome.”

With continued support, DOSportUK will no doubt keep transforming lives, one game at a time.

As Jen puts it, “It’s about more than basketball. It’s about giving people a place to belong.”

To find out more about DOSportUK by clicking here