The importance of reporting ableist abuse has been addressed by contributors to Level Playing Field’s ‘Unite For Access’ campaign film.
Disabled fans of different Premier League and EFL clubs joined a Dedicated Football Officer and Level Playing Field’s Head of Fan Engagement & Supporter Services.
This follows year-on-year rises in disability abuse as a barrier to attending live sport, as revealed in the 2024 Level Playing Field Annual Fan Survey results.
Paul Wright, the dedicated football officer for Brentford FC & Wealdstone FC, said: “We would like people to engage with us.
“There is a safe space for every person to attend a football fixture.
“If somebody makes a report, we have Dedicated Football Officers that want to make it a better place for the supporters.
“Any incident should be reported to stewards.
“We are always learning, and we need to improve in every aspect of policing and stewarding.”
Level Playing Field’s head of fan engagement & supporter services, Liam Bird, added: “This is a game for everyone, no matter your disability.
“What we need to do, is empower disabled people when they hear ableist language to raise it.”
Reports of incidents on matchdays should be made to the nearest steward or police officer, or via the live reporting channels at the venue.
Supporters are then advised to inform Level Playing Field of the incident following the match, in addition to any feedback on their experience of the reporting process. To do so, please email: info@levelplayingfield.org.uk
Abuse can also be reported to Kick It Out, or directly to the relevant clubs.
Watch the video on ableist abuse below, in different accessible formats, or read a full transcript, here.
The charity’s Patron, Roy Hodgson, launched the full film, in which those featured share more about their personal experiences.
This video includes a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter and audio description:
This video includes subtitles:
To get in touch with Level Playing Field about Unite For Access, please email: info@levelplayingfield.org.uk