The 2023 Level Playing Field Annual Fan Survey has provided the Rugby Football League informed data on the experiences of disabled fans.
Participation in the survey among Rugby League supporters dramatically increased this year, with 7.4% of total respondents making it the second most represented sport.
The full results report is now available to view, here.
Rugby Football League Chief Executive, Tony Sutton, says: “We are working hard alongside clubs to break down barriers to inclusion wherever they exist within our game. This strongly aligns with our commitment to supporting the Level Playing Field Annual Fan Survey and I am delighted that so many Rugby League fans have engaged with it. It reflects just how passionate fans are about our sport and how determined they are to make a positive difference – not just within Rugby League but in all sports.
“The survey results and recommendations are incredibly valuable, and we are already using them to drive improvements within the game. We will continue to support Level Playing Field and the fan survey as part of our commitment to delivering experiences that are accessible and enjoyable to all.”
Level Playing Field have provided clubs with individual reports to look at feedback specific to their own fans and Betfred Super League sides Leeds Rhinos and Wigan Warriors have already committed to further their consultation with supporters directly, by holding disabled fans’ forums.
Chief Executive of Level Playing Field, Owain Davies, said: “The appetite from the RFL and clubs to engage in the survey this year has been really pleasing.
“We have now been able to provide them with data which can be invaluable when making improvements to access and inclusion for disabled fans.
“It also informs our knowledge of the sport’s disabled fans and means we can deliver catered guidance.”
A record number of supporters took part in the Level Playing Field’s third annual survey, with data from across the 1791 total responses displayed in the full report, which can be found on the charity’s website.
An online forum will be held on Thursday 2 November, which will include a further briefing on the results and the opportunity for fans to feedback and discuss what the data suggests.
The Zoom call will begin at 5:30pm and is open to both disabled and nondisabled fans. Please register here, by midnight on Wednesday 1 November.