There have been mixed reactions from fans following the news that Southampton will nolonger provide free entry for visually impaired fans.
The Daily Echo state that Southampton will bring itself in line with other Premiership clubs from next season and charge the lowest possible entry fee for visually impaired supporters – however their enablers will still be allowed free access.
John Cunningham, a voluntary worker with charity Open Sight, has urged the club to rethink the change in policy.
‘The lowest price in each category doesn’t really count as a concession. That’s moving the community club we know and love into an arena that’s becoming less and less community minded, to the detriment of people who have supported for years. I’m not saying they should necessarily give free tickets, although it would be a nice gesture from clubs in the Big Society age.’
I think most fans would instantly disagree about the Big Society age comment for a start – those at the bottom end don’t seem to be getting the same deal that those at the top are. Big Society I don’t think was meant to equate to your bank balance!
On the issues though, it is right. Charging the lowest price in each age category isn’t a concession really, but being in the Premiership Saints are only bringing themselves in line with other clubs.
Maybe this is where Southampton can take the lead and whilst still charging for entry, set the bar lower than the clubs we are following, so both our visually impaired supporters and the club benefit.
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