On December 3, coinciding with the International Day of People with Disabilities, FC Barcelona reaffirmed its dedication to promoting accessibility and inclusivity for all individuals. Over the past year, the club has implemented various initiatives aimed at ensuring that everyone, regardless of physical, sensory, or cognitive challenges, can access its facilities and services safely and independently. These efforts align with the club’s ongoing commitment to uphold the rights and improve the well-being of people with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive society.
In a bid to enhance physical accessibility, FC Barcelona has made notable changes, such as introducing inclusive mannequins in its stores, which represent bodies of all types, including those with wheelchairs, prostheses, and other assistive devices. Additionally, the new wheelchair-accessible seating area in the Palau Blaugrana accommodates both wheelchair users and their companions, facilitating a more enjoyable experience during matches. The club has also streamlined ticket purchasing for accessible seating through an online sales system.
To address sensory accessibility, improvements have been introduced on the Barça Immersive Tour, including a magnetic loop for enhanced hearing, mobile multimedia audio guides with subtitles in multiple languages, and noise-canceling headphones for children and individuals with autism or heightened sensitivity to sound. The Barça Museum has also initiated “Hores + Tranquil·les,” allowing for quieter visiting hours tailored for those with autism or sensory sensitivities, complemented by trained staff to assist these guests.
Recognizing the importance of digital accessibility, FC Barcelona is conducting audits and providing training to staff on how to improve digital content accessibility through graphic design, web development, and content subtitling. Their collaboration with ONCE, a national organization for the blind, aims to promote accessibility in the future Spotify Camp Nou, further solidifying their commitment to inclusiveness.
Celebrating important awareness days, FC Barcelona marked the International Week of People with Deafness and International Day of Sign Language with engaging community activities, including performances of the club’s anthem in sign language. The club’s 125th-anniversary gala was also designed with accessibility in mind, showcasing a sensory relief painting for blind children and providing live broadcasts with subtitles and sign language interpretation.
On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, FC Barcelona continues to strive for excellence in accessibility and inclusion, setting a positive example for other organizations to follow and ensuring that everyone can partake in the joy of sports.
The club’s relentless focus on these initiatives not only creates a more inclusive environment but also inspires hope for a future where accessibility is universally prioritized across all sectors of society.