Cambridge UnitedTo mark autism acceptance day, we are looking Cambridge United’s initiatives, which are making it possible for new supporters to enjoy match days at Abbey Stadium.
The Sky Bet League One side’s improved provisions for disabled supporters have included the incorporation of free Sensory Bags and the picturepath Visual Visitor Guide.
Increased focus on access and inclusion from the club and its volunteers was showcased at their Unite For Access fixture, when nine-year-old Xavier Stark walked out alongside U’s captain Paul Digby, with both wearing ear defenders.
The joyous moment, at what was only Xavier’s second ever match, was captured by ITV News Anglia. This might never have happened however, if his mum had not stumbled across the club’s accessibility information on Facebook.
Xavier’s mum, Kirsty Speed said: “If I had known this support was in place, we would have gone a lot sooner.
“The club seem to be making a really big effort to continue improving things and after our first two experiences, Xavier is really excited to go again. He keeps talking to his friends at school about it.
“I was quite apprehensive ahead of our first match, as he can get quite worked up by crowds.
“The volunteers were really helpful though and met us early, to give us a sensory bag, show us to the stand and let us choose a spot.
“When a situation started to arise nearby us, the steward acted effectively and with awareness.
“It was a big relief for me, coming away and knowing we could have that kind of day out, like any other family.
“Xavier loves football and being in that environment enhances the situation for him. He is part of it – a supporter like everyone else.”
Level playing Field’s fans liaison officer, Liam Bird, was in attendance at Cambridge’s Unite For Access fixture.
“It was a pleasure to meet Xavier and Kirsty,” said Bird.
“Their eagerness to return to a match day again highlights the lasting impact initiatives like this can have.
“The work from the club and its volunteers is clearly paying off, and it is important to see that they recognise the need to develop their provisions continuously.
“The approach to direct consultation and support for individual fans has been an essential factor in Xavier and Kirsty attending matches at Abbey Stadium, and this shows that with some small additional tools and a little care, supporters who once thought attending football wasn’t for them, can now access it, as a family, with everyone else and the club have gained new supporters in the process.”
Supporters can find out accessibility information for all clubs in the top five divisions, on the Level Playing Field website.