Special Olympics Great Britain is teaming up with Parallel in encouraging people across the country to celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities, on Sunday 3 December, by wearing purple socks.

In recognition of the partnership, three specially designed purple socks have been released by sustainable activewear brand BAM. Once purchased, 50 per cent of the proceeds from each pair of socks will be donated to Special Olympics GB’s Unified Business Programme, which helps athletes across England, Scotland and Wales develop their employability skills.

Tom Casson, Head of Projects (Impact and Inclusion) at Special Olympics GB, said: “Buying a pair of purple socks to support International Day of Disabilities can make a great impact. Not only in promoting the rights & well-being of disabled people, but in creating opportunities that support their professional development.

“Unified Business is a great example of this, which challenges our athletes to develop their creative and entrepreneurial skills under the guidance of our corporate partners, such as Coca-Cola Europacific Partners.”

All purple socks, produced by BAM, are made from Bamboo and priced from as little as £6. Visit Bamboo Clothing and enter Promo Code PSSOGB, at the point of purchase and show your support for International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Be sure to take of photo of yourself in your purple socks, share on social media and tag in Special Olympics GB’s accounts on 3 December.

The next ActivLives Inclusive Badminton Tournament is coming soon at Gainsborough Sports Centre in Ipswich. The tournament, on the 9^th December, is being delivered in partnership with Special Olympics Suffolk and will include Doubles and Singles divisions, followed by the ever popular ‘Team Relay’ competition. This tournament has been sanctioned, and is being supported, by Special Olympics GB.  

If you would like more information about this event, please call the office on 01473 345350 or emailmike@activlives.org.uk

Active Suffolk Awards – Sports Personality of the Year

Massive congratulations to Waveney and SOS gymnasts Jack and Grace for being nominated for the Sports Personality of the Year category at the annual Active Suffolk Awards. We are proud to announce that Jack was chosen as winner and Grace the runner-up at the awards ceremony on Friday 17th November. Another great achievement for Jack and Grace – they are both so inspirational and have achieved so much through their hard work and determination. What an incredible year – excellent news, very well done!

Special Olympics Suffolk were well represented at the Special Olympics East Midlands Badminton Tournament, held recently at the University of Derby. The level of competition, from around England and Wales, was very high.  

Liam and Cameron flew the Suffolk flag, competing in the singles and doubles at the two-day event. An excellent silver medal by Cameron in the singles on the Saturday, was followed up by a terrific team performance by Liam and Cameron, in winning the gold medal in the men’s doubles on the Sunday.

Thanks to Mike for coaching our two Suffolk Superstars and very well done lads!