About disability snowsport uK

Disability Snowsport's vision is of mountains and ski slopes free from barriers, where disabled people can learn and take part alongside friends, family and community. It's our mission to make snowsport accessible for everyone; regardless of disability, injury or experience.

The skiers and snowboarders we work with range from children who need a little extra help to learn in a supportive setting, to adults who've experienced a life changing diagnosis or injury, as well as those who have life long conditions.
‍
We operate ski schools and recreational activities at various locations throughout the UK as well as delivering opportunities to ski and snowboard in a mountain environment worldwide.
‍
We are supported by a fantastic team of highly-qualified adaptive instructors as well as a brilliant network of passionate and skilled volunteers. Together, we work to ensure that everybody has the opportunity to access snowsport.

Our proud history

DSUK has over forty year's experience of teaching adaptive snowsports in the UK. We worked with the British Association of Snowsport Instructors (BASI) to introduce the Adaptive Snowsport Instructor qualification pathway. Here's how it all began...

1970s
‍
David Morris FRCP MRCS DCH, a consultant paediatrician and adviser to the National Spastics Society (now Scope) was convinced that the movement available through skiing could have valuable benefits in enhancing coordination, balance and self-awareness in young people with Cerebral Palsy (CP).

These highly controversial ideas met with resistance but a pilot scheme proved incredible benefits.

1980s - 1990s

It became clear that many other disabled people could benefit from snowsport. The Uphill Ski Club formed as an independent charity. This meant that other disabled people could access snowsport, not just those living with CP.

Over the years, our activities widened so that all disabled people, regardless of disability, injury, or experience, could access the benefits of snowsport.

The Noughties

In 2005 two other charities (the National Handicapped Skiers Association and Scotland’s Alternative Skiers) joined the Uphill Ski Club. To reflect this new body The Uphill Ski Club changed its name.

In 2007 The British Ski Club for the Disabled and the Uphill ski club merged together under our new name, Disability Snowsport UK (DSUK). It's been an exciting 40 years for us.

our values

DSUK's values guide every aspect of decision making and services:

welcoming

We welcome everyone and support inclusivity for all.

listening

We recognise that everyone is an expert in their own life and condition, and an equal participant in their own snowsport journey. We listen to members, learners, staff, volunteers, and partners to respond to the needs of our community.

Challenging and supporting

We work in partnership with individuals and organisations to help people unlock their potential, offering practical support to help everyone achieve their goals and make progress that is meaningful for each person or partner organisation.

transparent

We are committed to being open, fair and honest in person, in giving feedback, and across all of the charity's work.

What They Say?

What Our clients Say?

"When I became disabled my whole world changed. I needed something that would make me feel alive again, something that would make me feel the blood pumping around my body and give me the thrill that I needed in my life. Thank you DSUK!"

CLAIRE

ADAPTIVE SKIER