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Manchester United have been accused of “excluding” their disabled fans, with the disabled supporters association having contacted the club about the issue.
The accusations are centred around issues at Old Trafford, preventing disabled fans from watching games.
Included in these complaints are a “decline in steward standards” with a failure of responding to issues when an emergency assistance cord is pulled in the toilets, with this happening on three occasions.
The Daily Mail has reported the issue, with the Manchester United Disabled Supporters Association’s (MUDSA) secretary Rick Clement contacting the club.
Clement puts part of the problem down to United’s decision to use agency staff, with a 15% rise in parking fees hitting disabled supporters who often have no option other than to drive to games using a car or mobility vehicle.
As such a disable discount has been requested by Clement, alongside requesting the exclusion of disabled supporters from the new policy around season ticket holders attending 19 home games instead of the current 16.
Naturally, United have rejected the accusations that he club doesn’t value their disabled fan base and have remined fans of the £40,000 annual funding that has been continued to MUDSA.
A club spokesperson commented: “We take great pride in the facilities and services we provide for all disabled fans who attend matches at Old Trafford, and these have benefited from significant investment in recent years.”
The spokesperson continued: “Our strong commitment in this area is reflected by the fact the Premier League, who audit every match, have verified our operation to be of the highest standard.”
“We regularly engage with the Manchester United Disabled Supporters’ Association (MUDSA) to discuss how we can continue to deliver the best matchday experience for our fans with disabilities.
“Our commitment in this area is demonstrated by the significant donation the club continues to make each season to enable MUDSA to provide effective assistance and great experiences for their members.”
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Source: Centred Devils
