Wembley becomes first dementia friendly national stadium

Wembley Stadium has claimed a first among national stadiums after being awarded dementia-friendly status through the FA’s partnership with Alzheimer’s Society.

The stadium in London has introduced a series of supporting measures to improve accessibility and increase understanding and knowledge of dementia. These include bespoke training for public-facing staff like matchday stewards, information on ticketing receipts and the Wembley Stadium website and increased visibility of current services available, such as its dedicated lifts and accessible shuttle service.

The changes came after an audit of the stadium by people affected by dementia, who were invited to attend two matchdays and provide feedback.

Liam Boylan, director of Wembley Stadium, said: “The changes we’ve made at Wembley are the first steps in ensuring that those who are affected by dementia are not excluded from the beautiful game and can continue to enjoy the sport they love safe in the knowledge that their support and wellbeing is our top priority.

“Sport has an unrivalled ability to inform, educate and put a spotlight on important issues and we look forward to continue working closely with Alzheimer’s Society to raise funds and awareness to help provide desperately needed support to the 900,000 people with dementia in the UK.”

The FA is also backing Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Friendly Sports Clubs and Venues guide. The new guidance is designed for grounds and stadiums of all sizes, to help make sure all fans are supported, understood and know where to get help on gamedays.

The guidance has already resulted in The Premier League and The Racecourse Association all pledging their commitment to become dementia friendly.

Kate Lee, the Alzheimer’s Society chief executive, said: “Passion for sport stays with people long after a dementia diagnosis, so these improvements to one of the world’s most iconic football stadiums, in a national first, is set to be another legacy of our fantastic partnership with The FA and will make a massive difference to thousands of fans up and down the country.

“We want to see all sports showing their commitment to giving fans with dementia a smooth journey from sofa to stands and we’re really pleased to see our landmark guidance be so well received by organisations across multiple sports. We hope it helps foster a more inclusive, accessible and welcoming environment for sports fans with dementia, so they can continue to be at the heart of the action.”