More than nine out of ten viewers (94%) felt that TV coverage of the Paralympics helped shift perceptions of disabled people, according to research from Channel 4.
The research, which surveyed 400 viewers, showed 76% of respondents felt that the Paralympics had given them a new perspective on the challenges faced by disabled people.
Channel 4 reported that 77% of those surveyed believed there should be more coverage of parasports on television while 86% said that having disabled presenters on TV helped them to understand disabilities more clearly.
Channel 4 CEO Alex Mahon said: “Channel 4 is redefining Paralympic sport for future generations, pushing the boundaries of accessibility and representation, and ensuring that disability and parasport are seen, heard, and celebrated.
“It is great to see – through this research – how Channel 4 is changing public perceptions of disability, challenging prejudices and starting conversations that are sometimes difficult but always important.”
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According to Channel 4’s research, 17% of respondents said they started conversations around disability, some of which were centred around the athlete’s performance.
The research also highlighted that 46% of respondents felt that the Games challenged their own prejudices.
As part of its coverage, Channel 4 committed to making the games accessible, offering live audio description and making British Sign language commentary available during peak time sports, as well as live subtitles across all content.
The broadcaster also partnered with ParalympicsGB-run Every Body Moves, sponsored by Toyota, to increase awareness around disability.
During the Games, Channel 4 reported there were 31,000 listings for inclusive activities on Every Body Move’s site by the end of the Paralympics, rising to 44,000 by the end of September.
International Paralympic Committee president Andrew Parsons added: “Channel 4 has consistently led the way with its broadcast coverage of the Paralympics, and this year they have delivered the most accessible Games yet.”
