Rugby fan becomes ambassador for accessible ticketing scheme

A life-long rugby fan who is coming to terms with life as an amputee has become an ambassador for an accessible ticketing scheme devised by Nimbus Disability.

Richard Cowley, a teacher from South London, had his leg amputated in early 2024 and, as a wheelchair user, applied for Nimbus Disability’s Access Card to ensure he could return to enjoying live sports events again with the support of an essential companion.

Richard is now the official ‘Access Ambassador’ for live sports events and his views and experiences of using the Access Card at Principality Stadium in Cardiff are now available for others to see online.

The Access Card, designed and developed by Derby-based business-to-business consultancy and social enterprise Nimbus Disability, is the first accessible ticketing scheme of its type in the world.

It offers a universal and consistent way for disabled people to evidence and communicate their needs to providers quickly and discreetly.

Recognised with The Queen’s Award for Innovation, it is now held by more than 750,000 people across the UK and is recognised by more than 1,600 venues and events across the world who offer accessible tickets.

Richard said: “Readjusting to life as an amputee is a difficult task. Not only are the physical barriers a challenge but the thought process of now using a wheelchair and requiring more support than I used to.

“Discovering the Access Card has been a game-changer. The ticket purchase process for my first visit to Principality Stadium was so simple and the assistance I received at the ground was first-class.

“As the Access Card ambassador, I hope that I can show other disabled people the benefits of booking accessible tickets in this way to better enjoy the thrill of watching live sports events.”

Martin Austin MBE, managing director of Nimbus Disability, said: “We are delighted to welcome Richard onboard as our Access Card Ambassador for live sports events.

“Through the ambassador programme, we want to empower disabled people to highlight the benefits of the Access Card and give them a platform to share their lived experience with the growing number of providers and venues who work with us to improve accessibility for disabled people.

“I am particularly pleased that we were able to showcase Richard’s experience at Principality Stadium where our groundbreaking collaboration with their visionary team has been an incredible journey.

“Together, we’ve pioneered a new era of sports ticketing within rugby, ensuring disabled fans enjoy the same seamless online booking experience as everyone else.”

To watch Richard’s interview about how he uses the Access Card, visit

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