Bowls England has pleasure in announcing the appointment of Helen Lewis-Wall as Disability Officer as we continue work to make our sport inclusive for all.
Helen brings a wealth of experience from both her professional and bowls background, most recently as Para Team Manager at Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games and 2023 World Championships. Working closely with the Disability Bowls England (DBE) team and volunteers, Helen will lead the integration of services currently offered by DBE into Bowls England’s everyday work.
The Trustees of Disability Bowls England Charity Trust (DBE) announced in August this year that it would disband on 31st December 2024, with its activities being managed by Bowls England and the English Indoor Bowling Association (EIBA).
Bowls England is confident that existing DBE members and volunteers will feel the benefit of integration within our club services, competitions, events, communications, governance and finance functions.
Helen said:
“I have been involved with disability bowls for many years and am delighted to have this opportunity to shape its integration within Bowls England. We want to engage current members of DBE and harness the brilliant efforts of existing volunteers, whilst maximising the potential to bring new players and volunteers into the fold. I also look forward to working across our County and Club network to ensure our sport becomes more accessible to people living with a disability.”
Jon Cockcroft, Bowls England Chief Executive, said:
“Birmingham 2022 presented tangible evidence of the benefits of an integrated approach for disability bowls and it was positive to be able to showcase the inclusivity of our sport to a wider audience and key stakeholders. We are delighted Helen has joined the Bowls England team and we are confident her passion and expertise will help us make the most of the opportunity to make bowls truly a sport for all.”
Details on the competitions programme for disability bowlers will be announced in Spring 2025. The final stages will be held during the Aviva National Finals at Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa.
Bowls England will also host the Para Home Nations at Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa, from Friday 27 to Sunday 29 June inclusive. Further details will be shared when confirmed.
To contact Helen directly e-mail: helen.lewis-wall@bowlsengland.com