The world of sports is a platform that promotes inclusivity, equality, and fair competition. However, the current structure of international and Paralympic blind sports only includes athletes from the B1, B2, and B3 categories. This leaves out athletes from the B4 category who are visually impaired but not completely blind.

The classification system for visually impaired athletes was designed to ensure fair competition. The categories range from B1 (totally blind) to B5 (we are asking for the international games to include B4 which is a visual acuity of up to 6/24). However, only those in the first three classifications are currently allowed to compete in international events including Paralympics. We are focusing on B4 athletes as B5 is not widely used, especially outside of the UK.

Some VI sports also require their athletes to be patched and blindfolded to compete, such as goalball and blind football. This allows all athletes to have no vision and compete on an even playing field. Why is it then that B4 athletes are excluded from these sports too when their level of vision has no impact on their ability to compete?

This exclusion does not align with the spirit of sportsmanship or the principles of equal opportunity that these competitions aim to uphold. By excluding categories of visual impairment, we are denying these athletes their right to compete on an international stage.

Sport provides huge benefits to blind and partially sighted people, such as improved mental health, sense of community and improved physical wellbeing. In addition, competing internationally provides visually impaired athletes the opportunity to travel, network and meet new people. Why should these benefits be taken away from B4 athletes which can result in worsened mental health, feeling excluded from their community and lack of confidence when it comes to travelling?

We urge sporting bodies such as International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) and International Paralympic Committee (IPC) to reconsider this policy. Including all 4 classifications would allow more visually impaired individuals to participate in these events - fostering greater inclusivity within international sport.

Let's make our voices heard so that every athlete gets a chance at glory regardless of their level of visual impairment. Sign this petition now!