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Seashell Trust's award-winning integrated sport clubs have been celebrated at the House of Commons.

The trust's groundbreaking Children's Able and Disabled Sports programme (CADS) is being used a blueprint for youth clubs to beat the loneliness of children with disabilities.

Staff and volunteers from the trust attended Jack Straw MP's afternoon tea reception to launch A Level Playing Field, a joint lottery-funded programme between Seashell Trust and OnSide Youth Zones. Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson and sports broadcaster John Inverdale were amongst the other guests.

The scheme involves six Youth Zones across the North West which provide activities for all 8-19 year olds whatever their abilities with plans to expand into London.

A recent study by disability charity Scope suggested many disabled children never got to play with a non-disabled youngster.

Following the CADS' ethos that everyone should be able to take part in every activity, Seashell Trust-trained Youth Zone staff make sure everything from football to climbing is enjoyed by young people together whatever their ability.

Dominic Tinner, who launched CADS at Seashell Trust in 2003, said: “It's not just the particpation of the young people, it’s also about getting coaches and volunteers with disabilities involved as role models and the employment opportunities it presents for all.”

“From humble beginnings 10 years ago at our first inclusive sport event Seashell Trust's CADS programme has come a long way. Thanks to the Big Lottery-funded partnership with OnSide Youth Zones, A Level Playing Field will provide over 1,200 young people from across the North West with a range of needs, access to the highest quality inclusive sport and leisure activities by fully trained coaches, staff and volunteers. We are extremely proud to be taking a lead in helping to change these young people's lives.”

Keiran Donnan and James Douglas started at CADS 10 years ago and have returned as volunteers. They addressed the MPs, members of the House of Lords and business leaders from across the country to explain why they found the scheme so valuable that they wanted help other children have somewhere to fit in.

James, who uses a wheelchair, said: “When I was younger, I felt if I was to include myself in activities with able-bodied people I would feel out of place. It's about having that place to get on with people maybe with similar disabilities and feel comfortable in your environment.”

Keiran who has learning difficulties and was bullied at school said: “It got me out of the house. I can work with younger kids and make them feel at home. It is about being a role model.”

To attend any CADS activities please contact 0161 610 0122 or sports@seashelltrust.org.uk