Gateshead Council operates Special Olympics Gateshead Tyne and Wear, a sporting club that provides weekly sports training in 10 sports to children and adults with disabilities, equipping 174 athletes with the skills and confidence to compete in regional, national and international competitions. The sporting club has enabled people to make new friends, increase their feelings of self-worth, improve their fitness and provide opportunities to showcase their talent and potential. 22 athletes competed in the Special Olympics European Anniversary Games in Stirling, Scotland in August 2018 winning a total of 18 medals.  In addition, 3 Special Olympics Gateshead Tyne and Wear athletes have been selected to represent Great Britain in the Special Olympics World Championships in Abu Dhabi in March 2019.