The word "Paralympic" derives from the Greek preposition "para" ("beside" or "alongside") and the word "Olympics" (the Paralympics being the parallel Games to the Olympics). The Paralympics Movement aims to enable Paralympic athletes to achieve sporting excellence and to develop sport opportunities for all persons with a disability from the beginner to elite level. In addition, the International Paralympic Committee aims to promote the Paralympic values, which include courage, determination, inspiration and equality.
With her background in Occupational Therapy, it was natural to Rachel that all parts of the garden should be as accessible as possible. The spiral cinder path which represents the surface of a traditional running track, slopes very gently to allow access to people with limited mobility. Raised beds on either side of the path are high enough to be reached from a wheelchair and their deep retaining walls can be used as continuous informal seating and resting places throughout the garden. The centre of the garden has an area of lawn surrounded by a ring of moving water which is bridged in several areas to provide level access points onto the lawn.
In recognition of the Olympic value of preventing discrimination of any kind, the planting scheme in the raised beds aims to include all colours from the spectrum. This can be appreciated to its fullest extent from the central lawn area. A sense of security may be experienced as the garden wraps itself around the visitor. However, the area will be large enough to feel light, airy and spacious. For those who are unable to venture along the path, there is a viewing platform extending out over the garden. Nearby, tables and chairs are positioned under the shade of a Pierre de Coubertin oak tree.
For visitors to the garden who have a visual impairment, plaques commemorating the achievements of British Olympic gold-medal winners are embossed in Braille.