A variety of topics, including ticketing, the away matchday experience and EDSA events were discussed as the Club and the Everton Disabled Supporters’ Association (EDSA) held their latest meeting on Wednesday 20 September.
A vital part of Everton’s continued structured dialogue with supporters, the bi-monthly meetings give EDSA a platform to relay any feedback that their members and/or the wider fanbase may have, before working with Blues staff to collaboratively agree actions going forwards.
At the latest meeting, EDSA raised issues experienced at two recent away fixtures. They will work with the Club’s Equity and Inclusion Lead, who also acts as its Disability Access Officer, and Level Playing Field regarding this matter and improvements that can be made to the away matchday experience as a whole.
The Fan Engagement Team discussed fan participation in Club activities, including marketing campaigns, retail photoshoots and new stadium opportunities, and it was agreed that EDSA would assist with identifying supporters to take part in future initiatives. Events for EDSA members were also discussed, including access to tours of Finch Farm and Christmas-themed activities. When future events are confirmed, details of these will be shared on the group’s X, formerly Twitter, account, @EdsaEfc.
Conversations around ticketing at Everton Stadium also continued and further consultation opportunities with EDSA on the migration to our future home will take place in due course. The Fan Engagement Team updated on an upcoming migration survey that will assist with the transition of supporters from Goodison Park to the new stadium.
The group acknowledged the importance of the Club’s recently published 2023/24 Fan Engagement Plan, the commitment made to continued dialogue with supporter groups and EDSA’s inclusion within the plan.
The EDSA Committee highlighted issues at the recent home fixture against Arsenal, including congestion in the accessible areas of the Sir Philip Carter Park Stand, particularly during the pre-match warm-ups, and car parking. The Club confirmed it would continue to investigate improvements and provide the committee with an update ahead of the next home fixture.
The next meeting between Everton and EDSA will take place in November 2023.
