Hartlepool United Disabled Supporters’ Association was originally founded in 2001, helping some of Pools’ most vulnerable supporters by organising matchday experiences for fans.
Over time they’ve evolved and expanded to help a variety of people to be able to access short break holidays and respite breaks at their two adapted caravans; one at Primrose Valley and the other at Haven Lakeland. (These are available to hire at a cost of £400 for a full week. £240 for Monday to Friday and £180 for a weekend.)
As well as this they run a weekly special needs disco at the Catholic Club each Wednesday from 6 to 8.30. The cost of entry is £1.00 and this includes a raffle ticket.
In 2018 the club’s Disabled Supporters’ Association had their 17 years of efforts recognised with a Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. At the time Chairman Neil Appleyard said:
“It is an incredible feeling to have won the award. It just shows the hard work the volunteers and everyone at the association put in to deliver everything that we do. To have such recognition is very exciting, and it’s a brilliant award not just for the disabled supporters’ group, but for the town in general. It’s quite amazing for us.”
Here at HUST we’re in awe of the work carried out by HUDSA, often unseen, to ensure Hartlepool United is genuinely welcoming to all. It’s an organisation we’re more than happy to help promote on our website, hopefully generating increased publicity and support.
For further information contact Neil Appleyard at neilappleyard@hotmail.com
