The inclusivity of football should undoubtedly be one of its main qualities, but unfortunately we have had an illustration that this is not always the case.
Recently published research conducted by the charity Scope under their ‘We want to show disability discrimination the red card’ campaign contains some eye-opening statistics:
- Eight in ten of those people attending football stadiums across the UK have experienced some form of discrimination, such as abusive language and other issues relating to their disability;
- This has meant that the vast majority (62%) of disabled fans have prevented them from attending live matches;
- Just 42% of those questioned said that their club had a clearly defined zero-tolerance statement on abuse;
- A separate poll found that 52% of non-disabled fans think more should be done to prevent discrimination towards disabled people at football matches. The same poll found that a similar percentage think more should be done to make clubs more accessible for disabled fans.
I have written before on how disability discrimination has affected even those playing the game, but this research is a timely reminder that fans are still bearing the brunt of it. My work with the FA has shown that efforts have been made to tackle this issue, but we need to ask the question: does football understand discrimination? It should certainly have an appetite for doing so, but the above statistics cast doubt on that.
There is opportunity there for clubs to educate staff about all forms of discrimination and how to tackle it. Training surrounding equality issues can, and should, be delivered- employment lawyers are perfectly placed to assist with this. In addition, clubs can readily ensure that they have clear, user-friendly zero-tolerance statements (again something that a good solicitor can assist with if required.)
If you have any queries raised by the content of this article, Yunus is happy to help – please give him a call on 0113 284 5023 or email him via yunus.lunat@isonharrison.co.uk.
