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The Manchester United Disabled Supporters’ Association (MUDSA) has strongly criticised the club for excluding them, citing a “deterioration of the experience” for their members on matchdays at Old Trafford.
In a troubling letter published on Thursday, Secretary Rick Clement detailed a number of issues that have caused great strain to disabled fans.
Clement noted that there has been “a decline in stewarding standards,” with stewards demonstrating an “unwillingness to engage verbally” with the group’s members. He blamed this on United’s decision to transition to agency staff.
He also asked United to rethink the “16/19” rule for MUDSA members. Currently, the club require season ticket holders to attend at least 16 of 19 home matches before their ticket is withdrawn. Under this rule, holders must give two weeks’ notice if they are unable to attend a game. However, according to Clement, disabled fans do not face the same issues other supporters experience and so, they should not be subjected to be excluded from the policy.
MUDSA also condemned the “highly unjust” 5% increase in parking fees, emphasizing that most disabled fans rely on cars or mobility vehicles, making the hike a significant barrier to attending games at Old Trafford.
Clement also requested the club to consider their reduction of the pensioners’ discount from 50 to 25 per cent as it adds a burden to their members, who have demonstrated great loyalty.
The letter further read, “During my short tenure as Secretary, I have witnessed a decline in stewarding standards. Stewards have been observed with poor communication skills and an unwillingness to engage verbally with our members. They are also lacking training in understanding the needs of individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, they have been found to be unprepared to respond promptly to alarms raised in disabled toilets.”
“Individuals who require assistance entering the stadium have encountered additional challenges and anxieties. Fans standing up around the ground has become so obstructive that some games result in missed action for long periods on the wheelchair platforms. My members and I consider these issues unacceptable and demand immediate attention.”
Clement offered to help in training stewards.
He added in his letter, “I am concerned about the growing disconnect between our club and its fans, particularly regarding the increasing emphasis on disability issues. This is especially pertinent as we embark on the planning process for a new stadium. I implore the club to consider not only the legal requirements but also the needs and preferences of its members.”
The letter was addressed to co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, chief executive Omar Berrada, chief operating officer Collette Roche and other members of the hierarchy.
In response, a United spokesperson said [via Daily Mail], “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.”
“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.”
The Red Devils are back in action on April 1 when they go away to the City Ground to face Nottingham Forest.
Featured image Alex Livesey via Getty Images
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