Premier League clubs criticised by disability charity over accessible toilet facilities

Data compiled by Muscular Dystrophy UK reveals that newly-promoted trio Sheffield United, Aston Villa and Norwich, as well as Wolves and Bournemouth, do not have registered permanent facilities

A quarter of Premier League clubs do not have fully accessible toilets for fans with severe disabilities, a charity has claimed.

Data compiled by Muscular Dystrophy UK reveals that newly-promoted trio Sheffield United, Aston Villa and Norwich, as well as Wolves and Bournemouth, do not have registered permanent facilities – known as Changing Places – while Chelsea, Crystal Palace and Burnley are in the process of registering theirs.

Changing Places are accessible toilets which have additional specialist equipment and space for two carers, and are provided in addition to standard accessible facilities, and Muscular Dystrophy UK is calling upon all top-flight clubs to install at least one.

Head of policy and campaigns Clare Lucas said: “Football should be accessible to everyone, but too many disabled fans are put off going to matches because the facilities don’t meet their needs.

“Premier League clubs have a vital part to play in making the game more inclusive. We would encourage all those who haven’t done so already to lead by example by installing at least one Changing Places toilet.”

Clubs are also being urged to do more to make stadia accessible to supporters with disabilities and provide at least the minimum number of wheelchair spaces.

Former West Ham season-ticket holder Vicki Dennis, who has a form of muscular dystrophy, added: “I’ve been to games where the disabled toilets are filthy because they are open for everyone to use, while on other occasions they have been locked, so I’m forced to hold it in.

“Often, I’ll go without eating or drinking, because there are no food stalls up in the stands, and it’s hard to get down to the busy concourse.

“Everyone should be able to enjoy a day out at the football, and I would like to see clubs working with disabled fans and listening to feedback on their experiences.”

Tottenham lead the way with three Changing Places toilets and 265 wheelchair spaces at their newly-redeveloped stadium, while Football League clubs QPR, West Brom, Preston, Middlesbrough, Tranmere and MK Dons, as well as National League counterparts Chesterfield, have a registered facility.

PA