The 2024 Level Playing Field Annual Fan Survey has been launched, to gather valuable insight on the matchday experiences of disabled sports fans.
A record number of supporters took part in last year’s survey, in which more than half of disabled fans identified additional disability-related costs to attending live sport and almost a third shared that they had been impacted by the use of flares, smoke bombs, and other such pyrotechnics.
The 2023 data displayed year-on-year trends for the first time, with troubling rises in the percentage of disabled fans for whom ‘inaccessible public transport’ and ‘disability abuse’ are barriers when attending live sport. Now in its fourth edition, the survey is expected to provide further context in changes over recent years.
Results are shared publicly each year, as well as with clubs and governing bodies. Individual reports are sent to clubs, providing a clearer picture of their specific areas of improvement and weakness alongside wider trends.
Level Playing Field’s own activity is also heavily informed by the data collected, as areas which require closer attention can be identified from the results.
All disabled fans who have filled previous surveys in are encouraged to do the same this year, in order to highlight any areas of evolution or stagnation. The charity also asks that the survey is shared to all disabled supporters, as this will create the most reflective picture of matchday experiences across the board.
Chair of Level Playing Field, Tony Taylor, said: “Our surveys are an invaluable resource to the charity itself and other key stakeholders, providing an unmatched insight into the matchday experiences of disabled sports fans.
“Significant changes in accessibility and inclusion across recent years should become more apparent from this year’s data.
“The results are a vital asset for clubs and governing bodies, allowing them to see what is working and to make changes directly in response to specific issues pinpointed, but also highlight areas for Level Playing Field to focus on more widely.
“I am grateful to all of the disabled fans that have completed our previous surveys and ask them to share this one with their fellow supporters when doing so again.”
The survey will be open for four weeks. If you would like any further information about the survey, please contact Level Playing Field.
The 2024 Level Playing Field Annual Fan Survey closes on Wednesday 31st July and can be filled in here. The 2023 results are available to view here.
