A new system for reporting sexism and misogyny at football matches is set to be implemented in response to the increasing abuse faced by female fans. Kick It Out and Her Game Too have partnered to create a streamlined process for recording abuse while also offering support to those who experience it.
Both organizations had previously managed their own reporting systems, but with the growing scale of the problem, they have decided to join forces. Hollie Varney, the Chief Operating Officer of Kick It Out, explained that the rising reports of sexism and misogyny in football made collaboration essential. She emphasized that the partnership aims to ensure victims of discrimination are heard and given the necessary support. “At Kick It Out, we believe working collaboratively to drive change is the best way to combat discrimination,” Varney stated.
The new system will see Kick It Out take the lead on processing complaints, handling reports from fans, and liaising with clubs and governing bodies on the issue. Meanwhile, Her Game Too, a campaign launched in 2021, will focus on supporting victims of abuse. The partnership marks an important step in a collective effort to address the growing concern of gender-based discrimination in football.
This initiative comes amid a notable increase in reports of sexism at matches. Research from Kick It Out found that more than half (52%) of female football fans have either experienced or witnessed sexist behaviour or language on match days. However, an alarming 85% of those individuals did not report the incident, with many feeling that nothing would be done about it.
Caz May, the CEO of Her Game Too, expressed her excitement about the collaboration with Kick It Out, stating that the experience and expertise of Kick It Out’s team would be invaluable in handling reports of abuse. She also pointed out that, while Her Game Too is managed by volunteers, the combined efforts of both organizations would allow them to better support victims of abuse. “Her Game Too will still be on hand to support victims, offering face-to-face or virtual meet-ups with our ambassadors and advisers across the country,” May said.
The new system aims not only to provide a clear method for reporting abuse but also to make it easier for victims to come forward, with the assurance that their complaints will be taken seriously. By working together, Kick It Out and Her Game Too hope to create a safer and more inclusive environment for women in football.
This initiative is a direct response to the growing awareness of the prevalence of sexist and misogynistic behaviour at football matches, an issue that has long been underreported. The aim is to make football a more welcoming space for female fans, where they can enjoy the sport without fear of harassment or discrimination.
In the coming months, both organizations will continue to push for greater accountability from clubs and governing bodies in tackling sexism within football. By uniting their resources and efforts, Kick It Out and Her Game Too are hoping to send a strong message that sexism and misogyny will no longer be tolerated in the sport. This collaboration represents a significant step towards changing the culture of football and ensuring that everyone, regardless of gender, can enjoy the game equally.
