Visiting a large stadium can feel overwhelming, especially for fans with non-visible disabilities or those who are unsure what to expect. Accessibility familiarisation days are designed to help. By exploring the stadium in a calm, supportive environment ahead of match day, you can build confidence, reduce anxiety, and enjoy the excitement of live sport feeling prepared and welcome. These events also promote inclusion, independence, and equal access to live sport experiences.

How to plan your familiarisation day

A successful event requires careful planning. The goal is to create a calm, welcoming, and informative experience.


How to plan
Select a date and time

  • Choose a quiet non-match day (mid-week or weekend morning).
  • Keep the tour 60-90 minutes; offer multiple slots if demand is high.
  • Avoid extreme weather or stadium maintenance periods.

Plan the route

Design a tour that covers key journey points a fan would take on match day.

Include: 

  • Main entrance/turnstiles
  • Ticket office and collection points
  •  Seating areas (general & accessible)
  • Toilets & Changing Places
  • Club shop & amenities
  • Emergency exits

Accessibility tips:

  • Ensure signage is clear and high-contrast
  • Allow attendees to try accessible seating types
  • Note loud or flashing areas
  • Provide alternative routes for stairs, lifts, or other barriers

Communicate effectively

  • Use clear language: routes, quiet spaces, first aid posts
  • Provide information in multiple formats: PDF, braille, large print, audio

Prepare your staff and space

  • Staffing: Have your Disability Liaison Officer (DLO) and a few Sunflower-trained staff lead the tours
  • Sensory management: Keep the environment calm, turn off loud music and tannoys, maintain normal lighting, and provide sensory packs
  • Information: Prepare a simple visual guide or map of the route Consider adding photos or a simple map to the website so attendees can familiarise themselves before arrival

Promote the event

Promote your event via your website, social media, and DSAs with a simple booking system to capture numbers and any special requirements. Carers and family members are welcome, and attendees can bring comfort items like headphones or fidget toys. Adapt this ready-to-use copy to your Accessibility Hub so fans can easily find information and book.

 

Accessibility familiarisation days

Visiting a busy stadium on match day for the first time can be overwhelming for individuals with non-visible disabilities, sensory needs, or anxiety. To help you feel comfortable and prepared, we are proud to offer accessibility familiarisation days. Held on quiet non-match days, these free events allow you and your family or carer to explore the match day route in a calm environment. These events promote independence, inclusion, and confidence in navigating the stadium.

What happens on a familiarisation day?

  • Main entrance and turnstiles
  • Section of stadium bowl and seating areas
  • Routes to toilets and other facilities
  • Location of quiet space/sensory room
  • Information on where to seek help on match day

The tour is taken at a slow pace, and the team will answer any questions.

Book your place

Date: [Insert Date]

Time: [Insert Time(s)]

Email [Insert Email] with your name, number of attendees, and any specific requirements. Carers or family members are welcome.

On event day

Welcome & orientation

Welcome attendees at a designated point and explain the purpose of the day.

Tour

Lead the tour slowly, allowing questions, rest breaks, and familiarisation.

Support

Point out key support locations like Sunflower lanyard collection points and match day assistance.

Conclusion

End in a calm area, offer refreshments, and provide a contact for last-minute assistance.

Gather feedback

Send a short feedback form to attendees to improve future events. Offer attendees the option to receive a follow-up guide on what to expect on match day