DSA Unite for Access - programme article

Today’s game recognises the annual Level Playing Field (LPF) Unite for Access campaign.

This campaign focuses on the challenges of access and inclusion for disabled sports fans. LPF is a charity with the goal of assisting clubs provide the best match day experience for disabled supporters. LPF addresses two major issues as part of the campaign. The first is to ensure disabled fans feel equally valued and welcomed at matches. We can all play our part by ensuring we respect the challenges of disabled fans. The second is the recognition that not all disabilities are obvious. Hidden disabilities such as autism and ADHD are huge challenges.

Also, LPF conduct an annual survey on the experiences of disabled fans. The main issues raised by over 2,500 respondents are as follows:

  • Physical Access at stadiums – 33%
  • Attitudes of others – 26%
  • Difficulty Purchasing tickets – 24%
  • Anxiety or lack of confidence – 24%

There are often significant considerations for disabled fans when planning for their matchday experience. Here are the main problems identified by the respondents:

  • Accessible parking – 63%
  • The option to bring a Personal Assistant – 55%
  • Accessible entrances – 50%
  • Accessibility of information – 43%

The response from Brighton fans fell broadly in line with the national trend. It is hoped by working together we can continuously improve the experience of disabled supporters.

Seagulls-DSA Update

It was at the Unite for Access game on the 24th February 2024 (home game against Everton) when Seagulls-DSA was born. Over the last year the DSA (Disabled Supporters Association) has matured and grown, and we are proud to announce we now have over 100 members. So, what are we planning for the rest of this season and beyond?

DSA direction for 2025 – The DSA will focus on three areas identified in the findings of the LPF survey. We call them our 3C’s  – Cost, Confidence and Companionship. We have a detailed explanation on our website but briefly:

Cost – we know we don’t have the resources to subsidise costs to any great degree but we can make information available on best value and resource sharing.

Confidence – we can help disabled fans build confidence when coming to matches by providing information on what to expect, encourage pre-visits to the stadium and work with the club on providing open days.

Companionship – we plan to build a social community for disabled fans in the form of face to face meetings, social media groups and having representation at matches.

We will play our part in achieving the Unite for Access goal of providing the best possible matchday experience for disabled supporters.

Find out more by visiting Seagulls-DSA.co.uk 

 

Bryan Martin

Chair – Seagulls-DSA