The Sports Grounds Safety Authority (SGSA) today launches Supplementary Guidance to add to its established Accessible Stadia guidance.
The Accessible Stadia Guide, first published 12 years ago by the Football Licensing Authority (predecessor to the SGSA) states the minimum standards for delivering accessible facilities at sports grounds. It sets out good practice to help sports understand their obligations to disabled supporters to make inclusion and accessibility the norm.
The Supplementary Guidance reflects changes in legislation, societal expectations and improvements in technology. It does not replace Accessible Stadia and should be read alongside it. The supplement includes a legislative update and new guidance on:
- Amenity and easy access seating
- Changing Places toilets
- Accessible services and removing sensory barriers and,
- Access audits and plans.
Minister for Sport Tracey Crouch said “I welcome the SGSA’s latest guidance on what is expected at sports grounds and clubs to ensure inclusivity. A disability should not be a barrier to attending sporting events but there is still work to be done to improve access and the spectator experience for disabled fans. While there are examples of good practice across sport, I want to see more from clubs and sports venues on inclusion across the board.”
Alan Coppin, SGSA Chair said “Attending sporting activities is an integral part of our culture and tradition and no one should be excluded from experiencing the excitement of a live sporting event.
“The Accessible Stadia Guide and the new Supplement provide guidance to help new and existing sports grounds remove barriers to access and ensure all spectators can enjoy going to a sports ground in safety and comfort.”
Joyce Cook OBE, LPF Chair said “We welcome the timely publication of the SGSA’s new Accessible Stadia Supplementary Guidance which will prove an invaluable additional resource to all involved in the design and delivery of accessible and inclusive sports grounds, whether they be new or existing.”
Notes to editors Accessible Stadia was first produced in 2003 as a good practice guide to delivering accessible facilities at sports stadiums.
The Sports Grounds Safety Authority (SGSA) is the government body responsible for helping to ensure the safety of spectators at sports grounds.
Set up after the Hillsborough disaster, the SGSA carries out a range of statutory functions in relation to football in England and Wales, and advisory functions in relation to other sports within the UK and internationally.
The SGSA supports sport, clubs, local authorities, designers and industry to create a safe and enjoyable experience for spectators.
Through trusted advice and expertise, the SGSA works in partnership to protect the safety of spectators in sports grounds.
Direct media enquiries to Caroline Hale, Head of Communications caroline.hale@sgsamail.org or +44 (0) 20 7930 6693 / +44 7525 836287
www.safetyatsportsgrounds.org.uk
SGSA Accessible Stadia Supplementary Guidance
Premier League and its clubs pledge to meet Accessible Stadia standards by 2017
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