Nicholas’ love for Chelsea began in 2004, watching the likes of Joe Cole and Frank Lampard shine at Stamford Bridge. He was instantly drawn in by the excitement and intensity of the game and has spent the last two decades as a loyal supporter.

For him, Chelsea has always represented belief, 'a club with a strong history, big moments and a mentality of backing ourselves against anyone.'

This season the Blues became the first Premier League club to provide British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters on-screen at all home games in the Premier League and WSL, working with Cadbury to facilitate all domestic and European fixtures at Stamford Bridge and Kingsmeadow. 

Chelsea and Cadbury’s Sign with Fingers campaign, built in collaboration with the Chelsea Deaf Supporters Group and National Deaf Children’s Society, looks to celebrate and promote greater inclusion among the club’s fan communities - ensuring that everyone can enjoy matchdays. 

The campaign supports deaf supporters like Nicholas, and VERSUS caught up with him to find out more about how initiatives like this can improve the matchday experience.

First of all, what does Chelsea as a club mean to you?

For me, Chelsea is all about belief. Strong history, big moments, and always backing ourselves against anyone.

This season Cadbury and Chelsea have introduced BSL at all home games - how important is it for deaf fans to have access to this?

Accessibility is vital, it ensures deaf fans feel included and no longer miss out on the full matchday experience.

How important is this awareness amongst hearing fans too?

It’s so important for breaking stereotypes. Some hearing fans might unconsciously think that if you can’t hear the commentary or crowd, you’re 'missing out'. Understanding the deaf experience challenges that myth and highlights the fact that intensity, knowledge, and passion aren’t limited by sound.

Does having BSL at home games encourage you to go to more?

100 per cent definitely. 

What is a typical matchday like for a deaf football fan?

Matchday for a deaf fan is just like any other fans talking tactics, starting XI, and enjoying the game.

What challenges do you face as a deaf football fan?

We miss audio information like referee calls or stadium announcements, so sometimes we don’t know what’s happening.

What makes you proud to be a part of the deaf community?

Our culture, strength, and deep connection make me proud every day.

How do you feel supported by Chelsea and Cadbury on matchdays?

It’s so thrilling! Their inclusive matchday efforts let deaf fans fully enjoy the game and feel part of the crowd.

What advice would you give to hearing fans who want to learn more about communicating with deaf football fans?

I’d say learning some basics of BSL for example ‘good game’, ‘close’, ‘offside’, etc or use hand gestures and type on your phone if needed. Avoid saying ‘never mind’ if something gets missed - rephrase instead.

How does football still need to change to be more inclusive for deaf fans?

Football needs better stadium accessibility, sign language support, captions, and accessible digital and social media for deaf fans.