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A child who is a frame user plays football on a grass pitch with two kids who aren't frame users.
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How to support frame users

Here, we explain what we mean by frame users and how coaches can support these players. 

Disability football
Communications and relationships
England Football Learning logo on a red background.

England Football Learning

2 mins - May 13, 2024

Frame users are people with restricted mobility who use a frame or kaye walker to help them walk.  

Usually, frame users have Cerebral Palsy. This is a lifelong condition caused by damage to the brain. It can cause problems with breathing, movement, posture, balance and pain.   

 

Frame users with Cerebral Palsy might find it difficult to coordinate basic movements. They might have accidents because they have difficulty with balance.  

Another potential effect of Cerebral Palsy is speech impairment. Don’t assume a player has a learning disability just because they have challenges speaking. Hearing and sight loss are also possible. As is short-term memory loss. 

Some players with Cerebral Palsy are more prone to dehydration, muscle cramps and exhaustion.  

People with Cerebral Palsy may also suffer from epilepsy. Check that you know what to do if they have a seizure.  

These are just a few key differences that we’ve highlighted. So, if you want to find out more, download this PDF. It has loads of key information and tips to help you support frame users.  

But remember, no two frame users are the same. Get to know them. Understand what motivates them. Find out how their condition affects them and what support they might need. 
 

Adapt sessions with the STEP framework (Youth Sports Trust, 2002). Space: think about the surface – a hard surface is easier to move the frame on, but a softer surface will slow the ball down. Task: allow for regular breaks and use skill based and relay activities to build confidence. Equipment: use flat markers rather than cones and allow players to use the front wheels of the frame to help control the ball. Players: provide appropriate opposition and match ups based on age an ability.
Adapt sessions with the STEP framework (Youth Sports Trust, 2002). Space: think about the surface – a hard surface is easier to move the frame on, but a softer surface will slow the ball down. Task: allow for regular breaks and use skill based and relay activities to build confidence. Equipment: use flat markers rather than cones and allow players to use the front wheels of the frame to help control the ball. Players: provide appropriate opposition and match ups based on age an ability.

Here are five top tips to help you support players who are frame users: 

  • Take things slowly. Start with simple activities like toe taps and build from there. 
  • Frame football is ideally suited to indoor play, on flat smooth surfaces. This lets the frame move better. 
  • Avoid goals with low crossbars that players could collide with. If you must use a low crossbar, create a no entry area near the goal.  
  • Prioritise non-contact activities. Try pairs and relay activities where you can involve skills and shooting. 
  • Be aware that players might struggle with foot control. And they might only be comfortable using one foot. Be patient and encouraging.  

If you haven’t already, download this PDF for more information on how to support frame users. It’s a handy resource to take with you to training.  

And if you want to find out more about frame football or disability football, check out these useful links:  

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