On December 3, coinciding with the International Day of People with Disabilities, FC Barcelona reaffirmed its dedication to accessibility and inclusion. Throughout the past year, the club’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion department has introduced numerous initiatives designed to ensure that everyone, regardless of their physical, sensory, or cognitive abilities, can access its facilities, services, and information in a safe and independent manner. These initiatives reflect the club’s ongoing commitment to advocate for the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive society.
Among the notable efforts in physical accessibility is the introduction of inclusive mannequins in the Barça Stores, representing a spectrum of abilities, including models in wheelchairs and those using prostheses. This initiative aims to promote inclusivity and celebrate diversity.
In the Palau Blaugrana, a new area with seven specially designed seats for wheelchair users has been established, complete with companion seating. Additionally, a new online ticketing system now allows users to purchase accessible seats across all club facilities easily.
Enhancements for sensory accessibility have also been implemented. These include the addition of a magnetic loop and multimedia audio guides for the Barça Immersive Tour, which now feature subtitles in three languages. Furthermore, the Barça Museum has committed to quieter hours every Saturday to make the environment more welcoming for individuals with auditory sensitivities or autism. Staff members are trained in cognitive accessibility to better serve visitors.
Digital accessibility initiatives include audits of the club’s electronic content, along with ongoing training for staff on various aspects of digital design and content creation.
Partnerships play a crucial role in FC Barcelona’s commitment to inclusion. The club has signed a landmark agreement with ONCE to enhance accessibility at the upcoming Spotify Camp Nou and participated in events celebrating the International Week of People with Deafness and the International Day of Sign Language.
For the club’s 125th anniversary, a gala celebrated inclusivity through a sensory relief painting for blind children, helping them “experience” the mascot through touch. The event was made accessible with live subtitles and sign language interpretation.
Through these extensive efforts, FC Barcelona is not only setting new standards in accessibility but also creating an inspiring environment where every individual feels valued and included. The club’s initiatives serve as a model for others, highlighting the importance of creating spaces that welcome everyone, reinforcing the belief that inclusion is essential for all.