Stoke City To Introduce Accessibility Card Scheme
Stoke City are set to introduce a new access card scheme to help them offer the best possible service to supporters with accessibility requirements on matchdays.
The rollout, which was trialled with diabetes support group Insulin Avengers in 2025, will commence from the fixture on 14th March and will initially run until the conclusion of the current season.
The access card will be a small, discreet card displaying easy-to-understand symbols that reflect the needs of the supporter, allowing club staff to assist as efficiently and discretely as possible.
The form features the opportunity to indicate up to five symbols that best reflect the support required.
Head of Supporter Experience Anthony Emmerson said: “This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to making matchdays more inclusive, welcoming, and comfortable for everyone.
“We understand that some fans may feel hesitant or embarrassed to ask for help in front of others, and the access card will offer a discreet and respectful way to communicate individual needs to our friendly staff and stewards.”
Dave Marsh, Senior Youth Worker for the Children’s Diabetes Team at the Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The young people enjoyed their voice being listened to by the club, having their lived experiences valued and a chance to coproduce something that can have a hugely positive impact in future.
“For Stoke City to want to ensure that fans with diabetes (and other disabilities and long-term health conditions) enjoy their matchday experience is absolutely brilliant, and something we hope that other clubs, sports and entertainment venues will consider in future.”
A parent of one of the young people involved in the trial said: “The access passport scheme is a brilliant idea for people living with disabilities, as it makes people aware that they have a medical condition.
“When having to deal with the day-to-day challenges of injections, hypos and blood sugar levels, it is important to have confidence and to know you are not being judged.”
Image: Stoke City FC
