The quantity and quality of media coverage given to the Paralympic Games and Para sport events in the UK has significantly improved in the last decade.

This has stimulated changes in the representation of disability within the media industry.

Yet, there is still a shortage of empirical evidence on the role Paralympic coverage (broadcast, print media, social media) has on engaging public(s) and communities on issues related to disability, and improving the diversity of disability media representation.

This presentation draws on qualitative data from an Arts & Humanities funded research project to critically explore these aspects of Paralympic coverage and social change.

Dr Emma Pullen is a social scientist interested in the relationship between sport and social inclusion.

Her recent research has primarily focused on disability sport, the role and impact of Paralympic media and broadcast, and gender (feminisms) at the intersection of disability.

She has published in journals such as the International Review for the Sociology of Sport, Cultural Studies, and the European Journal of Communication and is working on a number of research projects including an Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) funded project titled Gendered representations of disability: Equality, empowerment and marginalisation in Paralympic media.