SUFFOLK FA are supporting this month’s Football v Homophobia (FvH) initiative.

Grassroots clubs in Suffolk are invited to support the initiative by taking action and tackling LGBT+ discrimination in football throughout February, the FvH ‘Month of Action’.

FvH is an international initiative which exists to challenge discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and expression at all levels of football.

They recognise this is an individual journey for each club, so their campaign pack provides different ideas which clubs can adapt. Clubs interested in getting involved with the campaign will need to meet the following criteria:

* identify an area/areas to improve LGBTIQ+ inclusion at their club
* share which actions they are taking as a club via their social media channels, during February, using the #FvH2022 hashtag
* designate a matchday to Football v Homophobia in 2022, when safe
* share the matchday event across their social media platforms
* communicate activity to the opposing team on match day

Clubs who sign-up will be emailed a campaign pack with some top tips on creating a more inclusive environment and how to make the most of a designated match day.

They will receive a rainbow match ball prior to their designated match, along with education leaflets for players. Their club badge will also be added to the ‘FvH 2022 Champions’ website page.

Suffolk FA Football Development Officer (Growth) Kirsty Smith said: “It’s important we raise awareness of campaigns like this throughout the season.

“Homophobia or discrimination of any kind is abhorrent and something we, as a county FA, want to try and eradicate.

“If we can engage clubs, players, referees, volunteers and leagues in campaigns like this that will help educate people on issues/areas within the game then that will help erase discrimination within the game.

“We pride ourselves on being an inclusive footballing county and we truly believe football should be enjoyed by everyone.”

To access the campaign pack click below.

CLICK HERE