Our ongoing collaboration with the broadcast industry has led to a significant breakthrough in accessibility for blind and partially sighted viewers. The 2024 Paralympic Games broadcast is set to be the most accessible in UK history.
For the first time, Channel 4 will offer live audio description on sections of live sport, allowing blind and partially sighted viewers to experience the excitement in real-time.
Additionally, live highlights will now include live audio description during their first transmission, a notable improvement from previous games where audio description was only available on later repeats.
In the lead-up to the Games, Channel 4 will air a series of 12 athlete profiles throughout July and August. The programming includes two documentaries titled "Path to Paris," Dame Sarah Storey's introductions to fellow competitors, and a film called "Equal Play," where Hannah Cockroft explores the challenges disabled students face in accessing sports and physical education. All these programs will feature audio descriptions, enhancing their accessibility.
To support this initiative, a new state-of-the-art facility has been established in Cardiff to house Whisper, the production company behind Channel 4’s coverage. This will be the largest sports production ever hosted in Wales, and the fully accessible production hub is expected to benefit future broadcasts.
RNIB is also partnering with Channel 4 to provide training for presenters and pundits on inclusive commentary practices, focusing on making commentaries more descriptive for blind and partially sighted viewers. This comprehensive approach ensures that the 2024 Paralympic Games will be a groundbreaking event for accessibility, setting new standards for inclusive sports broadcasting.