By BBC (Sports) | Created at 2025-01-21 21:56:05 | Updated at 2025-01-31 05:48:20
1 week ago
The threat of abuse is a barrier to attending sports events for more disabled fans than ever, according to a report by the Level Playing Field charity.
The figure of 8.5% of fans citing disability abuse as a barrier was the highest it has been in an annual survey that has been conducted for the past four years.
It has risen from 5.5% in 2021 to 6.5% in 2022 then 7% in 2023 and now increases by 1.5% in 2024.
"Clubs should ensure there is a clear process for fans to report any disability discrimination they experience on a matchday, and that this process is known to fans," said the report.
"All reports should be taken seriously, investigated, and responded to. Stewards should be given appropriate training to recognise and act on any disability abuse."
Level Playing Field is a charity registered in England and Wales that works with fans and organisations to improve the experiences of disabled fans going to live sporting events.
Its survey received a record number of respondents this year - 2,055 responses from a total of 1,924 fans - with some individuals also giving feedback on the second team they support.
Physical access to stadiums was the most common barrier disabled fans mentioned when it came attending live sport, with 33% citing the issue.
Attitudes of others (26%), difficulty buying tickets (24.5%), anxiety or lack of confidence (24%) and the cost involved (22.5%) were the other main issues highlighted.
A total of 22% of disabled fans said they were unable to attend a sport or sporting venue because they were inaccessible, which is the lowest figure since the survey began.
Level Playing Field said clubs and other organisations have been sent their own specific reports, with the full responses from disabled supporters relevant to them.
"The key positive trend displayed through the results is the year-on-year decrease in the proportion of disabled fans reporting they feel unable to attend any sports or sporting venues because they are inaccessible," Level Playing Field chair Tony Taylor said in the report.
"A marginal drop in 2024, after a dramatic fall the previous year, is very encouraging.
"It remains completely unacceptable, however, that more than a fifth of disabled sports fans are unable to attend some events due to inaccessibility."
