Sports clubs and the DDA

• Since December 1996 it has been unlawful for sports clubs to treat disabled people less favourably for a reason related to their disability.
• Since October 1999 sports clubs have had to make "reasonable adjustments" for disabled people, such as providing extra help or making changes to the way they provide their services.

Under the Disability Discrimination Act, (DDA), from October 1st 2004

Sports clubs may have to make other "reasonable adjustments" in relation to the physical features of premises they may own or lease to overcome physical barriers to access.

All facilities, including courts, changing rooms and clubrooms have to be accessible to all disabled people who will have the right to take for granted the use of any facility they wish.

The problems and challenges that each club is going to face are hugely varied, but they have to be dealt with. It is imperative that club officials address this issue and get as much information as possible on what they need to do. The legislation does not only cover facilities but also how clubs promote their activities, the knowledge and training of key officials, coaches and staff and the club constitution and policy.

Sport England and the Sports Partnerships across the West Midlands are currently looking at ways in which clubs can be supported through this potentially intricate process. Resources available in the autumn will include an access audit for clubs, information leaflets and a short workshop for club officials.

Further information on the DDA can be obtained from the following sources:

• By logging on to the Sport England website, www.sportengland.org, see 'Resources'
• By attending the Running Sport 'A Club for All' workshop - for details of the next workshop visit http://www.shropshire.gov.uk/sports.nsf
• By contacting the National Governing Body of your sport

The DDA cannot be ignored