Man Utd Disabled Supporters' Association slam club and raise 'grave concerns' with Sir Jim Ratcliffe over 'declining' standards

The Manchester United Disabled Supporters’ Association (MUDSA) has voiced its "grave concerns" regarding the club's treatment of fans, highlighting "decline in stewarding standards" in a letter written to INEOS chief Ratcliffe, The Telegraphreports. The association says recent changes have resulted in the use of stewards lacking the appropriate training to cater to the needs of disabled fans at Old Trafford.

Ratcliffe has made many unpopular decisions in his bid to improve the club's financial situation, including raising ticket prices and cutting hundreds of jobs. United recently announced that season ticket prices would go up again, while there would be a 15 per cent increase in parking charges at Old Trafford, which has also been criticised by MUDSA.

A letter from MUDSA secretary Rick Clement read: "During my short tenure as secretary, I have witnessed a decline in stewarding standards. Stewards have been observed with poor communication skills and an unwillingness to engage verbally with our members. They are also lacking training in understanding the needs of individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, they have been found to be unprepared to respond promptly to alarms raised in disabled toilets. Individuals who require assistance entering the stadium have encountered additional challenges and anxieties."

The letter continued: "While I am willing to assist in training stewards, I believe that the primary responsibility for addressing these concerns lies with the club and its decision to transition to a majority of agency stewards."

Addressing the parking charges, Clement wrote: "Using a car or mobility vehicle is essential for many of our members to attend matches. Public transportation is not a viable option for many of us. Train station access and assistance are among the numerous challenges we face. Therefore, I believe it is highly unjust to impose this price increase.

"Unemployment rates in the disabled community are significantly higher than the general population. Many of our members are already struggling to afford to attend games. If these price increases are implemented, I have received numerous messages indicating that many members will be unable to renew their memberships.

"I urge you to consider implementing a disabled parking discount, which would be a reasonable adjustment under the Equality Act 2010 to ensure that disabled individuals are not disadvantaged."

The Red Devils have endured a miserable season on the field, with Ruben Amorim's side sitting 13th in the Premier League table and will be hoping to reinforce the squad during the summer transfer window.