Disability Hate Crime is a subject that cannot be ignored. Unfortunately, as Ruth Hopkins, LPF Access & Development Manager found out at a Disability Rights UK Seminar held in Birmingham last month it is taking place all around us in different forms. It is shocking to hear that many vulnerable people are falling victim to “Mate Crime” where someone they trust cheats them out of money, benefits and property. But there are also reports of disabled people being verbally and even physically abused because of their disability. Hate crime is isolating and undermines peoples’ self-confidence. It can lead to changes in behaviour and fear. Ruth says, “We recognise that abusing someone because of their disability is no different from racism or homophobia and perpetrators should be treated the same way. Fortunately reporting is becoming easier with a number of resources available”. Level Playing Field and sports’ governing bodies treat disability hate crime very seriously and can offer support through the reporting process. More information can be found here
Vacancy – We are seeking to appoint an Administrator.
The role will be based at our offices in the Wembley area of London.
Key Responsibilities include :
General administration duties including answering calls, email enquiries, opening and scanning the post, preparing correspondence, ordering stationary, filing, taking notes at meetings and collation of various project tools and documents.
- Updating the website, preparing the e-newsletter and updating the data management system.
- Assisting with the organisation of meetings and events.
Please visit our web page for further information and to download the Job Description and Application Form.
Closing date for applications is 5pm Friday 21st March.
Contact careers@levelplayingfield.org.uk for more information.
Following the success of London 2012 the Winter Olympics and Paralympics 2014 in Sochi were eagerly awaited. The Olympics have been thrilling to watch and the Paralympics take place from 7th March to 16th March with a team of 15 athletes representing Great Britain. The wheelchair curling team and blind and partially sighted skiers are amongst our medal hopefuls. Visit the British Paralympic website for information at http://www.paralympics.org.uk/#
Following press reports about alleged bad disabled access at many venues in Sochi, we should like to hear about your experiences. If you visited the Winter Olympics or Paralympics as a spectator please email info@levelplayingfield.org.uk
Level Playing Field values its regular meetings with the leagues and sports governing bodies. The meetings give us an opportunity to discuss issues that have been brought to our attention and any on-going cases. We know that a number of disabled people contact us in confidence and prefer not to share their identity with the clubs or leagues and we always respect their right to anonymity. Last month Ruth met with the Football League and discussions centred largely on Away facilities – where improvements have been made and where many host clubs are moving things forward this season. It’s important to us that you continue to regularly leave your fan’s comments on our web site so we can provide feedback to the clubs and leagues and offer advice where necessary.
LPF Membership Subscriptions for 2013/14 are now overdue. Please do not miss out on the opportunity to vote at our next AGM. If you have not paid your annual subscription please send your cheque to our Chester office, c/o CAFE, Regus House, Herons Way, Chester Business Park, Chester CH4 9QR or visit our web site and pay using the Just Giving link. We rely on your subscriptions and donations to continue the work we are doing and we thank you for your support.