Autism Awareness at Stafford Rangers
As part of Autism Awareness Month, Stafford Rangers is proud to support an inclusive matchday experience for all supporters.
What is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neuro-developmental condition that affects how people experience and interact with the world. It can influence communication, social interaction, and how someone responds to sensory input such as noise, light, and crowds.
Autism is a spectrum, meaning it affects individuals in different ways — some people may need more support, while others live quite independently. It can also appear different in men than it does in women.
What is important to remember is that every autistic person is different.
The Matchday Experience
Football grounds can be exciting, but also challenging environments. For some supporters, matchdays may involve:
- Loud noise levels (crowds, whistles, music)
- Busy or crowded spaces
- Unpredictable moments during the game
- Changes in routine or unfamiliar surroundings
These factors can sometimes feel overwhelming, particularly for those attending for the first time.
How Can We Be Supportive?
Creating an inclusive environment doesn’t require big changes — small actions make a big difference:
- Be patient and understanding — not all disabilities are visible, so you might not know
- Respect personal space where possible
- Provide guidance where you can, so they can prepare in advance
- Avoid judgment — everyone experiences the game differently
- Be part of the friendly and welcoming atmosphere to all supporters
We also offer a quiet space in The Fans Bar, where supporters can pick up fidgets or a soft toy, and even take a break from the noise and the crowds to sit and follow the game with commentary from SRFC Radio.
Our Experiences
Megan Ratcliffe (EDI Officer):
Quite often, I can get overwhelmed in crowds and noisy spaces so you might think a football game is not for me – but I love football. When the Boro faithful welcome me into the Shed End with my noise-cancelling headphones in and a fidget in my pocket, a subtle hand signal to confirm I am OK and I am made to feel like part of them. That recognition is so important.
Sam (on behalf of his daughter Izzy):
Having a community club like ours where everyone is welcome is something, as a fan, I am immensely proud of. Being a father to a little girl who is non-verbal and on the ASD spectrum, seeing everyone say hello to her at every home game when they see her, really makes her included.
Evie Dixey’s family:
Evie says Stafford Rangers is her happy place. Here, she feels part of the team, or in her words “with the lads”. To be able to sponsor games and see her name against the players, are Evie’s favorite presents to get for her birthday and Christmas – its the only thing she asks for. Every player, fan, management staff that gives up their time to speak to Evie, makes her feel truly welcome – and all of us too – there is nowhere she feels more settled and herself.
A Club for Everyone
We are committed to making Stafford Rangers a welcoming place for all supporters and will continue to improve our accessibility wherever possible.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss your needs ahead of a visit, please contact: edi@staffordrangersfc.co.uk
