There are plenty of ways to make your organisation’s policies and procedures support a more inclusive environment for LGBTIQ+ people. Not having the correct policies and procedures in place can open your organisation up to scrutiny. Clear guidance through P&P can help your stakeholders respond in the correct manner to a situation, avoiding possible harm coming to an LGBTIQ+ person. Having clear and accessible guidance means that everyone can feel confident in dealing with a situation. Furthermore, it provides the LGBTIQ+ person with the comfort that comes from being heard, and having an appropriate procedure in place.

REPORTING

It is FvH Scotland’s vision that no homophobic incident goes unreported. No matter your organisation’s size or impact, you should have clear and robust reporting mechanisms in place. Information on your organisation’s reporting mechanism should be readily available if someone observes or is targeted by homophobia or transphobia. We see a future where victims and witnesses of homophobia and transphobia know where to turn to, that they will be supported not interrogated when they do and that their reports will be treated with the utmost sensitivity.

It is also important that reports are acted on in a manner which is supportive of the LGBTIQ+ community. A strong response to incidents of LGBTIQ+phobia plays a huge role in eradicating its ugliness from the beautiful game and shows that your organisation stands on the side of inclusion. Some people see football as a space in which to make derogatory comments, for these people, practising LGBTIQ+phobia will remain a part of their football routine until they are told otherwise. Football is an emotional game, but culprits should know when they are stepping out of line and should be educated on the impact of their words and actions.

STATEMENTS

It is always best to be proactive rather than reactive when it comes to LGBTIQ+phobia. It is important that throughout documentation and communications, homophobic and transphobic language and behaviours are defined and a strong stance against them is made clear. Such statements force people to assess their own language and behaviour, rather than waiting until the damage is done. Clear statements also make LGBTIQ+ people feel accounted for and safer knowing that homophobia and transphobia will not be tolerated.

TRANS INCLUSION

We strive for a future in which trans people are able to gain the same benefits from football as everyone else. Because football is categorised as a gender affected sport, trans participation as a competitive player can be limited by certain conditions set by leagues and other administrators. It’s important that your organisation understand these restrictions and remains inclusive outwith the rules of competition.