On 19th April, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) published a significant review of the extent to which Premier League football clubs are complying with their equality law obligations towards disabled fans. The review was based upon information provided by the clubs to the EHRC. The headline findings of the review included:
- only 7 clubs are providing even the minimum number of wheelchair spaces
- only 7 clubs have larger, fully equipped toilets, known as changing places toilets, installed
- 7 clubs are breaking the Premier League’s own rules by not publishing access statements to give disabled fans essential information about their ground
The EHRC announced a call for evidence from disabled fans and that it would be meeting with clubs in the coming months to monitor compliance with the Equality Act 2010. The EHRC made clear that clubs failing to meet the minimum requirements will be given a deadline of September 2017 to publish a clear action plan and timetable for improvement or face a statutory investigation from the Commission.
James Robottom is on the EHRC’s panel of preferred counsel, he has worked with the EHRC on its work in relation to the Premier League Clubs since December 2016.
To learn more about the report, please see the articles below:
- https://www.equalityhumanrights.com/en/our-work/news/premier-league-clubs-progress-disabled-access-revealed
- http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11661/10843433/study-shows-premier-league-clubs-are-failing-disabled-supporters
- http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/39643089
- http://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2017/04/20/exclusive-premier-league-clubs-face-legal-action-do-not-address/
For help or advice please call +44 (0)20 7242 3555 or complete the form below
A member of the Clerking team will help you resolve your request.
Frequently asked questions
Do you have an out of hours number?
Yes, please call Chambers mainline number +44 (0)20 7242 3555 and you will be directed to the out of hours phone lines.
How can I find out whether 7BR can take my case?
As a direct access client, please visit our direct access page and complete the initial form, a member of the clerking team will then be in touch to discuss the next steps.
Will my barrister deal with all the correspondence?
Some barristers have the ability to “conduct litigation” for direct access clients. Our clerks will be able to assist you as to which of our members are trained and accredited to do so.
How do I instruct a barrister?
Please visit our direct access page for the initial steps on instructing a barrister, or contact our clerks on +44 (0)20 7242 3555.
