Man United accused of ‘EXCLUDING’ disabled followers as membership’s supporters’ affiliation makes determined plea

Manchester United have been accused of ‘excluding’ disabled fans from watching matches – thanks following a number of alleged issues at Old Trafford.

The club’s disabled supporters’ association have written to bosses outlining a perceived ‘decline in stewarding standards’ which they claim have included a failure to respond on multiple issues when fans have pulled the emergency assistance cord in the toilet.

In a troubling letter, secretary Rick Clement says the club’s decision to transition to agency staff has triggered myriad problems.

He has also questioned a ‘highly unjust’ 15 per cent rise in parking fees, pointing out that disabled fans have little option other than to use a car or a mobility vehicle and stating that such a move will result in stopping numerous members who are already struggling financially from being able to attend games.

Clement has asked bosses for a disabled discount and has also called for disabled supporters to be excluded from a policy in which those with season tickets have to attend at least 16 of 19 home matches before their ticket is withdrawn.

He has also called for a rethink of United’s reduction of the pensioners’ discount from 50 to 25 per cent which is ‘particularly burdensome for our loyal supporters who have consistently contributed financially to the club’.

Manchester United have been accused of ‘excluding’ disabled fans from watching matches

A letter has been sent to Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Omar Berrada as well as other members of the Red Devils’ senior leadership team

‘As individuals who have recently experienced a reduction in their income due to government policies, it is imperative that our club demonstrates a commitment to their well-being,’ Clement added.

Mail Sport has been informed that on three occasions the emergency cord has been activated, with no response. Two of the occasions were false alarms while on another a fan came to the assistance of an individual who had locked themselves in a toilet and could not get out.

The letter has been sent to co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, chief executive Omar Berrada, chief operating officer Collette Roche and other members of the club’s senior leadership team.

United reject any notion that the club does not value support from disabled fans and point out that, despite wide-ranging cuts, they will continue with the £40,000 funding it provides to MUDSA on an annual basis. They add that they will investigate any issues raised to them.

A Manchester United spokesperson said: ‘We take great pride in the facilities and services we provide for all disabled fans who attend matches at Old Trafford, and these have benefited from significant investment in recent years.

‘Our strong commitment in this area is reflected by the fact the Premier League, who audit every match, have verified our operation to be of the highest standard.

‘We regularly engage with the Manchester United Disabled Supporters’ Association (MUDSA) to discuss how we can continue to deliver the best matchday experience for our fans with disabilities.

‘Our commitment in this area is demonstrated by the significant donation the club continues to make each season to enable MUDSA to provide effective assistance and great experiences for their members.’