Disabled fans put off attending live sport due to threat of abuse – report
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The threat of abuse is a barrier to attending sports events for more disabled fans than ever, according to a new report. The percentage of fans citing disability abuse as a barrier was at the highest level (8.5 per cent) recorded in the four years that the Level Playing Field charity has conducted annual surveys.
That is despite the survey receiving a record number of respondents this year, with 2,055 responses from a total of 1,924 fans, with some individuals giving responses for more than one team they follow. Anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out’s most recent annual report for 2023-24 found a 35 per cent rise in the number of reports of ableist abuse compared to the previous season.
The 2024 Level Playing Field data, published on Tuesday afternoon, found the attitudes of others was the second-highest barrier to attendance for 26 per cent of respondents. The report stated: “Clubs should ensure there is a clear process for fans to report any disability discrimination they experience on a matchday, and that this process is known to fans. All reports should be taken seriously, investigated, and responded to. Stewards should be given appropriate training to recognise and act on any disability abuse.”.
The report examined a wide range of issues connected to the live sport experience for disabled fans. A fifth of respondents said they would benefit from the option of being able to pay in cash at venues, while over a quarter (26.5 per cent) said they would benefit from having a physical ticket.
