A partially sighted Dundee FC fan says he felt “humiliated” after being told he needed more proof he was disabled when renewing his season ticket.
Willie Tanner, 68, visited the club shop on Wednesday to secure a cheaper ‘early bird’ offer ahead of next season.
The Broughty Ferry man says he got into a dispute with a staff member when he was asked to provide proof he was registered blind – despite having no issues last season.
The former bank worker says he has hemianopia – a condition that leaves him seeing only blurry shapes within 50 yards – though he retains long-distance vision.
He developed the condition after suffering a brain aneurysm.
Dundee FC say they updated their disability policy last month.
This now requires disabled fans to provide specific documents to show their eligibility to buy season tickets.
‘Customer service experience was lacking’ says Dundee FC fan
Willie said: “The whole process was humiliating.
“I’m a big boy, but this hurt on Wednesday – especially as there was a queue of folk.
“I’m registered blind and can’t see things close up, so I need assistance getting to my seat.
“I generally go with a friend, so I get my book and a concession book for the person assisting me.
“I showed my blue badge and another card confirming I’m visually impaired.
“I also showed them the medication I take for my condition.
“Given I’m already a disabled season ticket holder, I shouldn’t have to explain myself like this.
“The customer service experience was lacking – it shouldn’t have been that hard.
“I’m bitterly disappointed by what’s happened.”
Club says ‘eligibility’ must be submitted
A spokesman for the club said: “Dundee Football Club has a disability policy and disability criteria in place.
“The club announced on April 10, 2025, that its disability criteria had been reviewed and changed in alignment with other Scottish football clubs.
“The disability policy and criteria are available on the club website.
“For supporters wishing to purchase a disabled season ticket, Dundee FC ticket office staff verbally communicate the disability criteria and explain that proof of eligibility must be handed into the ticket office or emailed to the club’s disabled access officer.
“This must be an award letter for the current year, alongside photographic identification and proof of address.”
Willie says he still hopes to be able to resolve the issue before the season starts.
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