Who we are

An infographic displaying the accessible seating area at a football stadium during a match.

Research team

Principal Investigator

Dr Marianna Pavan is a Lecturer in Sport Management and Policy within the Sport Policy Unit at Manchester Metropolitan University. Her research sits at the intersection of human rights in and through sport, sport for development and peace, and disability engaging with issues on inclusion. Using participatory methods, she works alongside participants, giving them voice and ensuring their perspectives shape research process and outcomes. Across her research, she is committed to producing accessible outputs for audiences beyond academia, including supporters, clubs, governing bodies and community organisations.
Marianna has worked with national and international organisations and sport governing bodies, undertaking consultancy and advisory roles, and has presented her research across academic, policy and practitioner fora. She holds a PhD from the University of Edinburgh and an MSc in Human Rights from the London School of Economics and Political Science.

My profile

Accessibility specialist

Charlie Beeston is the Chair of the Lincoln City Disabled Supporters Association. As a blind supporter, he is a keen advocate for promoting inclusive access to football for all fans. Charlie is passionate about improving accessibility through his role with the DSA, as well as through his wider work in football journalism. He has spoken to a number of outlets about the strengths and shortcomings of current matchday experiences across England, with a particular focus on ensuring disabled supporters are listened to and represented within the game.

Participants – Co-researchers:

This research employed a photo-narrative participatory method that recognises participants as co-researchers. They are disabled football fans based in Scotland and England, and their lived experience informed the findings of this study. Their names or pseudonyms are:

Project enquires: