A new partnership, led by operator Leisure Connection, is developing disability-specific courses to be implemented at Stoke Mandeville Stadium, the National Centre for Wheelchair Sports.

The partnership consisting of WheelPower, a dedicated charity for British wheelchair sport, and Bucks New University will offer level three personal trainers the chance to specialise in disability coaching and training.

The programme will focus on movement sports such as wheelchair basketball, static sports such as archery and training designed for people with mental disabilities.

Martin McElhatton, CEO of WheelPower, said: "We'll be able to give people practical experience, and that's essential in giving them the confidence to deal with disabled people who come into their facilities. We are looking to launch officially in spring 2009 and the course will run from September.