GIVING BACK
Chris Hunt Skelley MBE is a believer in ‘giving back’ as much as he can, as he is so grateful to the people who have supported and helped him during his sporting journey so far.
In September 2023, Chris was named as one of five Paralympic Ambassadors for the Pathway to Paris programme organised by the British Paralympic Association. Alongside four other Paralympians he will seek to inspire the next generation of Paralympians and encourage anyone to get active and involved in sports.
In 2023 Chris became an Ambassador for the rugby club Hull Kingston Rovers. Chris played rugby avidly when he was younger and still follows the sport today. He comes from Hull originally and only gave up rugby when his degenerative eyesight made it impossible for him to carry on as a player. His love for the sport remains. Find out more about Hull Kingston Rovers here – https://hullkr.co.uk
Chris is already an Ambassador for Phoenix Enterprises in Swindon Wiltshire, which is a mental health and learning disability charity, providing holistic support and work experience opportunities for vulnerable adults. The team help their service users progress with their lives with the long term aim of them finding/sustaining paid employment, enabling them to live an independent life. His wife Louise, also a Paralympian, works with the organisation on a part time basis, alongside the other work she does which is vastly focused on empowering people with disabilities and inclusion. Find out more about Phoenix Enterprises here – https://phoenixenterprises.co.uk
Chris also supports the Royal National Institute for Blind People (RNIB) which provides support, information and advocates for those living with sight loss. Chris is often asked to support their activity and will share their news and updates on social media.
In 2022, Chris was awarded an MBE for services to Judo and he received his medal from King Charles III at a ceremony at Windsor Castle (when the King was Prince Charles).
During lockdown, Chris delivered food parcels in Wiltshire to help people who were shielding or unable to get out the house, he did this alongside colleagues from Phoenix Enterprises. As a result, he was given a Social Impact award by UK Sport for his outstanding contribution. Find out more here – https://www.britishjudo.org.uk/chris-skelley-wins-social-impact-award-at-uk-sport-plx-award-evening/