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’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion department has rolled out various initiatives aimed at making facilities, services, and information accessible to everyone, irrespective of their physical, sensory, or cognitive challenges. These efforts reflect a strong commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities, aiming to foster a more inclusive society.
The club has made significant strides in physical accessibility, notably introducing inclusive mannequins in its official stores. These mannequins portray a diverse range of individuals, featuring models in wheelchairs, those with prostheses, cochlear implants, and glasses, effectively promoting inclusivity.
Additionally, the Palau Blaugrana has established a new area designed specifically for wheelchair users. This area includes seven seats, each accompanied by space for a companion, facilitating shared enjoyment of matches. The club has also enhanced ticket purchasing by introducing an online system that allows for easy access to accessible seating in all venues.
FC Barcelona is also committed to sensory accessibility, having implemented improvements for visitors with hearing and visual impairments on its Barça Immersive Tour. Enhancements include the installation of a magnetic loop, multimedia audio guides with subtitles in multiple languages, and noise-cancelling headphones for those with sensory sensitivities.
To create a more accommodating environment, the Barça Museum has instituted ‘Hores + Tranquil·les’, a program aimed at individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities. Each Saturday, the museum lowers light and sound intensity to provide a safer and more welcoming experience. The staff has received specialized training to better serve this audience.
In terms of communication accessibility, FC Barcelona has also subtitled the Barça anthem on video scoreboards during Liga matches, making it more accessible for individuals who are hearing impaired.
Digital accessibility remains a priority for the club, which has conducted audits and training to enhance the accessibility of its online content. Employees are receiving training in graphic design, web development, and creating accessible digital documents to ensure inclusivity in all formats.
In collaboration with ONCE, FC Barcelona has signed an agreement to enhance accessibility at the new Spotify Camp Nou. Notably, the club participated in the creation of a special ONCE coupon celebrating its 125th anniversary, further demonstrating its dedication to individuals with disabilities.
The club also marked the International Week of People with Deafness and the International Day of Sign Language with several activities, including performances by a choir composed of members from local deaf and cultural organizations.
During its 125th-anniversary gala, the club introduced a sensory relief painting of their mascot for blind children, enabling them to experience the mascot through touch. The event was live-streamed with subtitles and sign language interpretation to ensure it was accessible to all.
On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, FC Barcelona continues to set high standards in accessibility and inclusion, striving to ensure both physical and digital spaces are welcoming and accessible for everyone.
This comprehensive approach to inclusion reflects a broader societal shift toward recognizing and valuing diversity, and it is hopeful to see sports organizations like FC Barcelona taking proactive steps to ensure that everyone can participate and enjoy the game.