File photo used for representation only
Qatar Foundation’s (QF) accessibility volunteers are set to play a key role in ensuring a memorable fan experience during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
The volunteers have received FIFA core training and additional training on accessibility and inclusivity to create a welcoming environment for differently-abled football fans, according to Progam Manager, World Cup Project at Qatar Foundation, Brooke Reid.
“Qatar Foundation has recruited and trained specialist accessible volunteers to support the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Volunteer Programme in the delivery of the most accessible FIFA World Cup to date,” Reid told The Peninsula.
According to Reid, accessibility volunteers will assist with visitor experience throughout the FIFA Fan Fest in Al Bidda Park, within sensory havens in the Global Street Carnival on the Corniche, and as fans make their way to matches in Education City Stadium.
QF’s training programme partnership with FIFA for accessible volunteers reflects its mission which is built around empowering people by opening up opportunities for participation, involvement, and experience for all.
“We are doing specific trainings to ensure that all of the volunteers are ready ahead for the tournament,” said Reid.
“We have accessibility experts from Hamad Bin Khalifa University as well subject matter experts across QF and working with venue with FIFA,” she added.
QF has recruited and trained specialist accessible volunteers to support the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Volunteer Programme in the delivery of the most accessible FIFA World Cup to date.
“From our special schools and research institutes, we worked with experts to bring together our knowledge and build the capacity of volunteers in Qatar by working with 2022 volunteers programme and training accessibility volunteers to volunteer during the World Cup,” said Reid.
“We consider this more like a pilot program at the fan festival, on the Corniche and as well at the Education City. We would add this experience on to future planning,” she added.
QF is actively supporting the delivery of integrated accessibility for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 through the development of sensory spaces for all individuals who may require sensory regulation and a calm area of respite, building local capacity and expertise through training of accessibility volunteers, audio descriptive support, auditing fan areas for accessibility standards, and implementation of an accessible events experience. While, as visitors head to matches taking place in Education City, they will be greeted by QF’s vibrant community, introducing them to Arab culture, guiding them through fun activities, and sharing key insights about Education City and QF’s broader mission.
“Between now and end of the World Cup, we have the opportunity to engage with football and the wider community,” said Reid. “During the World Cup period, through activities we enable fans to experience what QF does, through activities organised within a football context and enjoy the environment,” she said.
