20/03/2009
This disability awareness campaign is now in its fourth year with over 80 professional clubs taking part last year. The campaign is organised by NADS and runs over a 2 week period each season providing a platform for clubs to showcase their disability works in the community, and to promote their disabled supporters facilities and services.
NADS is delighted to announce that this year's campaign will take place over the two week period commencing 21st March 2009 and ending on 5th April 2009. This gives each club the opportunity to showcase their disability projects and to promote their disabled supporter facilities and services to their local communities
This year's campaign focus is on disabled supporter facilities and in particular those for supporters with learning disabilities and difficulties. People with a learning disability find it harder to learn and understand things than other people, and often find it hard to communicate. People with a learning disability should have the same choices and opportunities as everyone else. That includes being able to go to sports events.
NADS is today announcing the launch a joint publication in partnership with Mencap – “Making sports venues and stadiums accessible for people with a learning disability.” Copies are being sent to all football clubs and County FA’s as well as being available online here and at www.mencap.org.uk.
Many people will imagine someone in a wheelchair when thinking of disability and around 1% of the population uses a wheelchair. However there are many types of disability, some more hidden, and each with specific access needs. NADS LPF Patron, Sir Trevor Brooking, says "I am delighted that we are focusing on supporters with learning disabilities and difficulties for 2009 and I urge everyone to get behind this important campaign".
NOTE FOR EDITORS
The National Association of Disabled Supporters is the only recognised national democratic representative body for disabled football fans in England and Wales. We represent over 30,000 disabled supporters, their carers and advocates. Details of facilities for disabled supporters at all grounds as well as latest news, downloads and how to join NADS can be found at www.nads.org.uk.
For more information contact:
Gary Deards NADS Administrator 0845 230 6237