Disabled section at Old Trafford.

Reds promote accessibility initiative

Friday 06 March 2020 16:56

As we continue to promote equality, diversity and inclusion through our own #allredallequal campaign, Manchester United is marking Sunday’s fixture against Manchester City by supporting Level Playing Field’s Weeks of Action, as they celebrate access and inclusion for all disabled supporters.

The annual initiative, which is now in its 16th year, is focusing on the matchday experience for disabled fans, shining a light on the positives of attending football matches and promoting a culture of accessibility and inclusiveness in sport.

Work is continuing at Old Trafford to enhance accessibility for all disabled supporters, and will see an increase in the amount of accessible seating across the stadium.

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Representatives of clubs from Russia and Germany took part in a Disability Access Officer exchange meeting.

118 new wheelchair positions and 158 amenity seats will be installed in the Stretford End, South Stand and North West Quadrant areas of the stadium, providing supporters with the opportunity to watch games at various distances and heights, including a new purpose-build concourse at the back of the Stretford End.

With seats already being trialled by users on a match-by-match basis, facilities are due to be permanently in use for the 2020/21 season. Manchester United’s Disabled Supporters Association (MUDSA) will again be backing Level Playing Field this year, with their dedicated support staff wearing Level Playing Field t-shirts during Sunday’s fixture.

Chas Banks, Secretary of MUDSA, said:

“The club and MUDSA have worked together to deliver this dream scenario for disabled Manchester United fans. With new wheelchair and ambulant facilities created in many different locations, there literally is something for everyone. It’s not just the physical structures either. Stewards receive training in helping to serve disabled people in the best way and that human connection, often dealing with people attending their first game, is a vital part of the wider picture.

“The club and MUDSA have been helped on this journey by the efforts of the LPF, who have given advice and support throughout. As we celebrate their annual campaign, we focus our thoughts on the ongoing nationwide effort to improve facilities for fans with all kinds of disabilities, not just those in wheelchairs.

“MUDSA is proud to be a member of LPF and we remain committed to helping United fans with accessible needs support the club home and away.”

For more information on the ongoing work to improve accessibility for disabled supporters at Old Trafford, please visit www.manutd.com/accessibility.

Find out more about the club’s equality, diversity and inclusion activities by visiting our All Red All Equal page or by using #allredallequal on social media.

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