We provide independent expert advice on all matters related to accessible sporting venues and to inclusive match and event day experiences for disabled fans.
Level Playing Field currently handles around 600 enquiries per year from clubs and disabled fans. As the numbers of disabled people continue to rise, and their expectations quite rightly increase too, we expect this number to increase unless measures are put in place across all sports to ensure more inclusive facilities and services.
LPF recognises that some sports clubs are making improvements for their disabled fans and we are keen to work with them to offer support and advice when changes are made to policies, procedures and the physical environment. We have many examples of achievable good design solutions for existing and new stadia as well as no cost and low cost suggestions to becoming more accessible.
New stadia, along with any other public buildings, should of course be designed to be inclusive with at least the minimum of legislative requirements in place. We are therefore disappointed when stadium design teams do not meet these minimum requirements as we expect all professional sporting venues to deliver a fully inclusive spectator experience. It is our view that all sports venue building projects should appoint a professional access consultant with sports stadia experience to oversee and advise throughout the whole project.
Evidence shows that some of the best progress happens where there is a proactive pan-disability, user-led Disabled Supporters Association (DSA). Having an independent democratic group of disabled fans, with a good working dialogue with their club, helps to raise awareness and to ensure that accessibility is on the agenda.
For more information and support in setting up a DSA please visit the Disabled Supporters Association page on this website.
We work closely with sports governing bodies and Government and the leagues and clubs themselves to ensure we remain the “go to” organisation for advice regarding disabled supporters.