Accessibility Programme Launch Marks Sochi 2014 Five Year Countdown

“The 2014 Paralympic Games in Sochi will set new standards of infrastructure and comfort for people with a disability. We will be working tirelessly to create an innovative and inspirational Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in 2014", said Mr. Chernyshenko.

Through the programme, Sochi 2014 wants to ensure that the Black Sea coastal city is fully accessible for people with a disability by the time it hosts Paralympic competition. This will ensure that the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Games leaves a tangible legacy for the 15 million people with a disability across Russia.

By Games-time, a range of services for people with a disability will be on offer in the city, including wheelchair rental and service centres as well as the availability of specialist equipment to assist individuals with a range of physical disabilities.

Sochi 2014 is committed to not only meet, but also exceed, the requirements of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) for Paralympic Venues. As a result, Sochi 2014 facilities will be developed with special facilities for spectators with a disability to ensure that their enjoyment of the events will be guaranteed.

Dmitry Chernyshenko, Sochi 2014 President and CEO, said: “I am committed to ensuring that during the preparations for Russia’s first Paralympic Winter Games we ensure that every possible step is taken to exceed the expectations of the IPC. During the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Games, people with a disability will have the ability to move around freely, watch each of the different competitions and visit the tourist and recreational areas of Sochi.”

The creation of an accessible environment involves several aspects which have been considered by Paralympic Games experts at the Sochi 2014 Organizing Committee. They will ensure that Sochi’s sporting and transport infrastructure and legal framework will meet the needs of people with a disability. The Organizing Committee will also ensure that education programmes for volunteers, emergency services staff, law enforcement personnel and Sochi 2014 partners are conducted.

“The 2014 Paralympic Games in Sochi will set new standards of infrastructure and comfort for people with a disability. We will be working tirelessly to create an innovative and inspirational Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in 2014. I hope Russia’s first Winter Games will be able to change social attitudes towards people with a disability and if this is achieved we will have succeeded in our mission”, said Mr. Chernyshenko.

The official opening ceremony for the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Games will be staged 7 March 2014 at the Sochi Central Stadium. Competitions will be held in five sports: Alpine Skiing, Biathlon, Cross-Country Skiing, Ice Sledge Hockey and Wheelchair Curling.

For more information, please visit the official website at www.sochi2014.com.