Illustration of Barcelona Champions Accessibility: Setting New Standards for Inclusion

Barcelona Champions Accessibility: Setting New Standards for Inclusion

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On December 3, coinciding with the International Day of People with Disabilities, FC Barcelona reaffirmed its dedication to accessibility and inclusion. Over the past year, the club has rolled out a variety of initiatives through its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion department, aimed at ensuring individuals, regardless of physical, sensory, or cognitive challenges, can access its facilities, services, and information in a safe and independent manner. These ongoing efforts underline the club’s commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of people with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive society.

In terms of physical accessibility, FC Barcelona has introduced inclusive mannequins in its stores that represent a diverse range of abilities, including models in wheelchairs and with prosthetics. Additionally, the Palau Blaugrana has unveiled a new section specifically designed for wheelchair users, equipped with seven dedicated spots plus accommodations for accompanying guests. The club has also launched an online ticket purchasing system for individuals needing wheelchair-accessible seating across all venues.

Focusing on sensory accessibility, FC Barcelona has made enhancements to the Barça Immersive Tour to cater to individuals with hearing and visual impairments. These improvements include a magnetic loop for better hearing, mobile multimedia audio guides with subtitles in Catalan, Spanish, and English, and noise-canceling headphones provided for children and those with autism spectrum disorder. Moreover, the Barça Museum has initiated ‘Hores + Tranquil·les’ — quieter hours every Saturday from 3 to 5 p.m. — to create a more welcoming environment for those with sensory sensitivities. Staff have received specialized training to better support visitors.

FC Barcelona has also taken steps toward digital accessibility by conducting audits of its online content and training employees in graphic design, web content creation, and accessible digital documentation. The club has signed an agreement with ONCE to enhance accessibility at the new Spotify Camp Nou and celebrated the International Week of People with Deafness and the International Day of Sign Language with engaging activities, including performances in sign language.

During the gala marking FC Barcelona’s 125th anniversary, initiatives were showcased that included sensory relief paintings for visually impaired children and the utilization of subtitles and sign language during the event’s broadcast to ensure inclusivity for deaf and hearing-impaired attendees.

On this significant day, FC Barcelona continues to set high standards for accessibility and inclusion, working diligently to ensure that both its physical and digital environments are welcoming to all.

This commitment not only raises awareness about the importance of accessibility but also reinforces the positive impact that sports clubs can have in advocating for an inclusive society. By prioritizing such initiatives, FC Barcelona serves as a model for other organizations striving for equity and representation.

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