The United Nations declared this year’s theme as ‘Sustainable Development: The Promise of Technology’ and this has been split into three sub-themes, one being ‘Disability-Inclusive Sustainable Development Goals’. Technology can be used to enhance the experience of all football fans and to create a more inclusive environment. One recent example of this is the Barclays Premier League free Away Days App.
The aim of the app, available on iOS and Android, is to make away day experiences easier and cheaper by providing information for travelling fans on a single platform. The app holds information on all 20 stadiums in the Premier League, as well as on ticketing and fixtures, on local places to stay, eat and park and provides discounted offers for travelling fans.
Additionally, under ‘Stadium Details’ the app also has a section dedicated to accessible facilities. The information covers the availability of wheelchair user spaces, hearing loops, audio descriptive commentary, accessible toilets, rest points/seats and low-level food and betting counters. It also provides the club contact details for any enquiries regarding accessibility.
Currently, LPF is working with the Premier League to develop an Accessibility App to extend the information for disabled supporters.
To download the Away Days App, search for ‘Premier League Away Days’ in your app store or visit http://www.premierleague.com/en-gb/fans/away-days.html.