James

James Casserly is a football coach, boccia player and accessible travel advocate from Ireland. He is also a global youth champion for Equal World. James is 18 years old and has cerebral palsy and polyarticular juvenile arthritis.

A traveller and advocate

A keen explorer, James is acutely aware of the challenges that people with disabilities have to navigate when travelling. In James’ opinion, this isn’t documented enough, so in April 2022, he decided to embark on a journey to all 32 counties of Ireland to show accessible travel experiences on public transport.

James has just completed his Leaving Certificate Applied and aspires to have his own travel show or consultancy when he finishes his education. In September 2024, he began a Certificate in Travel and Airline Studies, with a particular interest in accessible tourism and travel. James uses his social media platform, Jimbo’s Accessible Adventures , to encourage others to travel and explore, and share tips and tricks for businesses, organisations and individuals.

James also worked with the Ombudsman for Children as a speaker and member of the Youth Advisory Panel for Beyond Limits Summit in Sligo and Limerick. James is part of CIE Transport Trailblazers where he, alongside a team of keen travellers, provides person-led experience to help develop best practices in national public transport. He’s worked with the National Transport Authority, Department of Transport, Minister for Disability, National Bus and Rail Union, Irish Rail, Bus Eireann, Dublin Bus, Dublin Airport, Discover Boyne Valley and Harvey’s Point to help improve travel experiences.

A sportsman and coach

James is also very interested in sports, especially football, and has completed his PDP (Player Development Programme) Level 1 and 2 coaching badge. He’s currently working with the Football Association of Ireland to continue his coaching education and wants to encourage other people with disabilities to take up coaching. He also plays boccia and is a very keen competitor.

In 2022 James visited the European Parliament and completed an access review. He previously spoke at the Department of Sport on inclusion in sports and the barriers to participation for people with disabilities.