Disability Access Officers

In 2015, the UEFA CLub Licensing and Financial Fair Play Regulations were updated, including the requirement for Disability Access Offices (DAOs) for the first time. This requirement ensures that access and inclusion for disabled people is integrated into every level of football, and was approved by the UEFA Executive Committee at its meeting in Prage in June 2015.

The licensing regulations require clubs to appoint a DAO who is responsible for improving access for disabled people (on both matchdays and non-matchdays) and ensuring continued progress in this critical area. The role of the DA is not an entirely new concept, with successful models already in existence in a number of European countries – notably Germany and the United Kingdom.

Many national associations and clubs (including several in Scotland) have chosen to combine the SLO role with the DAO role. While this may seem the most logical way to go, it is essential to recognise that the two positions are very different in terms of their responsibilities and requirements. It is important to recognise that the DAO role – unlike the disability liaison officer (DLO) role previously seen in some countries – is about more than just liaising with disabled spectators and ticketing.

Licensing Requirements

The role of the DAO is enshrined in Article 46 of the UEFA Club Licensing and Financial Sustainability Regulations, which states that:

• The license applicant must have appointed a disability access officer to support the provision of inclusive, accessible facilities and services.
• The disability access officer will regularly meet and collaborate with the relevant club personnel on all related matters.

For more information on Disability Access Officers, visit the UEFA website and their specially produced Handbook.