Wheels and Wheelchairs
1804. Muhayman Jamil
1805. Isaac Harvey
Dr Muhayman Jamil and Isaac Harvey, from London, founded ‘Wheels and Wheelchairs’ in 2012, inspired by the success of the London Paralympics, to help wheelchair users enjoy the sensory benefits of taking part in sport.
Muhayman first set up the initiative, and was joined by Isaac two years ago, who serves as President of the charity and has significantly expanded its profile. ‘Wheels and Wheelchairs’ brings together volunteers and members with disabilities in London for weekly roller skating sessions around Battersea Park in lightweight sports wheelchairs, combining the rush of speed with the social interaction of outdoor sport. The group also run regular street strolls and longer adventures, such as roller marathons in Europe and on route-tested trips such as Bristol to Bath and back, and the Cambridge busway.
The award for Muhayman and Isaac coincides with International Day of Disabled Persons.
In a personal letter to Muhayman, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“Being Mayor of London during the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics was an extraordinary privilege and I never cease to be amazed by the legacy created by our wonderful athletes.
“‘Wheels and Wheelchairs’ epitomises the spirit of that special summer by breaking down barriers to sport participation and getting thousands of disabled people out on their wheels.”
In a personal letter to Isaac, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“Almost a decade on, the legacy of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games is still a source of pride for many Londoners. Your wheelchair races in Battersea Park are a fantastic example of that legacy in action, enabling hundreds of disabled people to enjoy the speed and thrill of roller sport.”
James Murray, MP for Ealing North, said:
“I am delighted that one of Northolt’s own, Dr Muhayman Jamil, has received the Prime Minister’s Points of Light award for his work founding ‘Wheels and Wheelchairs’. I am sure his efforts will have inspired so many people to change the way they think about disability, and I want to offer him my warmest congratulations.”
Muhayman and Isaac said:
“Our main goal and focus has always been and always will be making sure that all of the young people with a wide variety of different disabilities who come out with us, experience something unique and enjoyable. Whenever we are given awards like this, it can be used to further our cause and for that we are truly grateful.”