Inspiring a Generation—But Abandoning the Disabled?

London 2012 promised to be a game-changer for disability rights. But over a decade on, how much really changed? In this episode, Dr Mike Duignan is joined by Dr Verity Postlethwaite to critically examine the legacy of the London 2012 Paralympic Games. While the event broke new ground in integrating Olympic and Paralympic agendas and spotlighted elite parasport, many disabled people argue that everyday barriers remain—if not worsened. Verity unpacks the social model of disability, the role of government austerity, and why meaningful change depends on more than visibility. Together, they explore how event planning, policy, and community engagement must evolve to better serve disabled populations beyond sport. If you're interested in how mega-events promise—and often fail—to deliver social impact, this is a must-listen. Discover what London 2012 got right, what it missed, and what is needed to make legacy more than just a buzzword.