Who are we?

Pathfinders (Swindon) are a local voluntary group that encourages young men and women to achieve independence, self – confidence and self – esteem by participating through a variety of sporting activities. Our aim is to persuade members to look forward, to take control and be positive. All our members have physical disabilities but this does not prevent them living life to the full. "Pathfinders believe and its volunteers believe that whatever able people can do, we can do better”. Pathfinders (Swindon) began in 1997. Since then we have taken part in many sports and continue to challenge the limitations placed on people with physical impairments. We have participated in many activities. Some of these have taken place in specialist outdoor centres; Pathfinders have also independently organised other challenges with the collaboration of qualified instructors. "I have had an enjoyable and fun week...I probably learnt more about working and relating to disabled people in that one week than in 19 years I have been in the Ambulance Service" We have not only had the opportunity to experience many different sporting activities but we are fortunate to have been able to encounter different cultures, to meet and discover new friends, to give advice on disability issues and to share and pass on information. However we could not organise such challenges or activities without the continuing support of local businesses, our voulnteer care staff and the generosity of the general public. "What a team...Where do you get all your energy? The attitude of all the young people...their approach to life is incredible:the way in which they don't allow their disabilities to define or dictate their life."