It goes without saying that football as an industry carries enormous positive value for vast numbers of the population. Millions play the game weekly and the volume of fans up and down the country knows no bounds.
Football exists as a beautiful game to be enjoyed and appreciated. Sadly, we know that this experience is blighted for some by the presence of hate and discrimination. This is not tolerated in society and we do not believe that football should be any exception. It is vital that the game is welcoming to everyone in whatever capacity they choose to participate and they are not excluded from getting involved as a result of abuse and prejudice.
I joined Kick It Out in October 2016 as the Reporting Officer because I am passionate about combating discrimination, and I believe that the football industry has a responsibility and unique ability to bring individuals together from different backgrounds witha common goal of enjoying the game.
It is my duty to help ensure that football-related discrimination will be treated with the seriousness that it deserves. This can be achieved both with sanctions and education by the clubs and relevant bodies. Last season Anwar and I delivered education workshops to supporters of various clubs who had engaged in discriminatory behaviour. Going forward, we are eager to continue to engage with fans and ensure that all are informed of why we exist and how we can support you in tackling discrimination.
If you are a victim of, or witness discriminatory behaviour, at any football match or on social media, we encourage you to report it. We will help you to raise the issue with the relevant authorities and you always have the option to stay anonymous, if that makes you feel more comfortable.
Once you have made the report, I will take the case forward on your behalf and support you during the process. Every day I liaise with the FA, clubs, the Police and the leagues to ensure that all incidents of discriminatory behaviour in football are thoroughly investigated. To challenge this behaviour I am dependent on supporters reporting the incidents to us. So don’t be a bystander – if you see it or hear it, report it!
There are several ways in which you can report discrimination:
App: You can report via the Kick It Out reporting app which can be used on iPhone and Android devices. Download the product from the App Store or Google Play.
Freephone: Call 0800 169 9414 and speak directly to a Kick It Out staff member.
Online: You can report an incident by filling out the online reporting form on the Kick It Out website.
Social Media: You can report it to Kick It Out on Twitter via @kickitout or @kickitoutreport. You can also contact the organisation directly through their social media accounts on Twitter, facebook and Instagram.
Other: You can also get in touch with us via email on samantha@kickitout.org
You can find out more about reporting an incident on Kick It Out’s website.
Samantha McLeod
Kick It Out Reporting Officer
