Disability Access Offier; DAO

About the Safeguarding Team:

Our dedicated team is committed to creating a secure and supportive environment, ensuring that everyone involved with our club feels safe and valued. At the Academy, we implement robust safeguarding policies tailored to protect our young athletes. We conduct regular risk assessments and provide tailored training for coaches and staff, focusing on recognising and addressing potential safeguarding concerns. Working closely with other teams, we ensure that safeguarding measures are seamlessly integrated into all activities.

Our aim is to protect our young talents so they can thrive on and off the pitch in a nurturing environment.

This is a unique chance to be at the forefront of making a real difference in the experience of disabled supporters and visitors at Sunderland AFC. As our Disability Access Officer, you will lead initiatives to improve accessibility across our stadium and club facilities, ensuring compliance with legal requirements while championing a culture of inclusivity. You will work closely with internal teams and external organisations, shaping policies and practices that promote equality and accessibility.

Your role will involve conducting or overseeing access audits, developing comprehensive access plans, and leading ongoing improvements across all facilities—such as reception, ticketing, shops, amenities, stadium seating, hospitality, parking, and VIP areas. You will ensure that staff are trained in disability awareness, understand their responsibilities, and are equipped to support disabled individuals effectively. Acting as the primary liaison, you will communicate with disabled customers, supporters, and external groups, fostering dialogue and sharing best practices.

Additionally, you'll coordinate accessible parking and drop‑off provisions, guide ticketing arrangements for disabled supporters, and support the establishment of disabled supporter groups, all with the aim of creating a fully accessible and inclusive environment.

We are seeking a highly motivated individual with a strong understanding of disability legislation, accessibility standards, and best practices. You should have experience in conducting access audits, developing access plans, and implementing ongoing improvements. It is essential that the successful candidate is either already trained as a Disability Access Officer or willing to complete relevant training upon appointment. Excellent communication skills are vital, as you will act as the main liaison between the club, disabled supporters, and external organisations.

We value a proactive approach, with the ability to champion disability issues confidently and effectively. A commitment to inclusivity, collaborative working, and continuous improvement is essential. Knowledge of stadium operations or experience within sports environments is desirable but not required. An Enhanced DBS from Sunderland AFC is required.