Today, London Youth Games and Chaotic Community have partnered to expand access to inclusive sports for young people with special educational needs (SEN), ensuring more SEN children can experience the transformative benefits of sport and physical activity. 

LYG’s ParaGames competitions provide a platform for young disabled Londoners to take part in over 25 inclusive events each year, such as Boccia, Inclusive Basketball and Dance. Since LYG was founded, over 27,000 disabled young people have taken part in these events, reflecting LYG’s long-term dedication to inclusivity in sport. 

According to Sport England’s Active Lives Survey, 29% of disabled children engage in less than 30 minutes of physical activity each day – a statistic that LYG and Chaotic aim to change through their new partnership. 

Chaotic is a UK-based competition site dedicated to supporting families with SEN. Chaotic actively partner with and sponsor a variety of community organisations, schools, and charities that align with its mission. This commitment is deeply personal to founder Shana Kennedy, whose son, Reyon, has autism. With a growing community of over 76,000 members, 90% of which have an SEN relation, and an additional parental group with 15,000+ SEN parents, Chaotic provides a dedicated space for families facing similar challenges. In addition to financial contributions, the organisation offers in-house support services, including free 1:1 family support, funding for low-income families, and more. 

Together, LYG and Chaotic Community will strengthen efforts to increase inclusion in sport, with Chaotic Community supporting the London Youth Games ParaGames Athletics Event at Mile End Stadium. This event unites young people with diverse needs from across London, allowing them to compete in track and field events while building confidence, improving wellbeing and reducing loneliness. 

Additionally, the partnership will introduce the new Chaotic Community Inclusion Award, which will be presented at LYG’s end-of-year Celebration Evening. 

Andy Dalby-Welsh, CEO of London Youth Games, said: “There’s a huge gap in support for young people with SEND in the community. We’re proud to provide inclusive events across the Open Games and School Games, ensuring every young person of all abilities have the opportunity to take part in sport.” 

Shana Kennedy, CEO of Chaotic Community, said: “It’s very easy for our children to be overlooked, left on the sidelines or made to feel like they do not belong. Even in a world which talks about inclusion. Partnering with London Youth Games is an opportunity for us to stand by an organisation that truly sees these children for who they are – brave, brilliant and bursting with potential. We’re excited to help provide SEND children with a safe platform to showcase their talents, build confidence and show the world that they are little superstars! Because every child deserves the chance to shine.”