The Football v Transphobia (FvT) Week of Action is taking place from March 24th until March 31st, ending with the Trans Day of Visibility. 

It is the third year of the campaign, which started back in 2019, to highlight the positive contribution trans people are making to football and show how everyone involved in the game can be active allies to trans and non-binary people and support their inclusion.

Natalie Washington, FvT Campaign Lead, said: “Trans people still face real barriers getting into football. Fears and experience of exclusion can put people off taking part in the game they love, even when trans inclusion policies are in place.

“In the vast majority of cases there is little or no provision for non-binary people whatsoever. We hope by continuing to celebrate trans and non-binary identities in the game, and by providing resources to help clubs and administrators to be more inclusive, we can help football become a great place for everyone.”

As football is still largely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s campaign will focus largely on online activity. 

The #TransFootyAlly social media campaign, calls for allies to share how the game is enriched by the presence of trans and non-binary people.

People are encouraged to share videos and images on social media, of who they are, what they do in football and as an ally, how trans people being in football has enriched their experience.

Trans and non-binary people are also encouraged to share content about how cisgender people have been allies to them or to share top tips for those wanting to be allies in the game.

Football v Homophobia Campaign Director, Lou Englefield said: “Allies are so important in creating welcoming spaces and inclusive football.

“Trans and non-binary people make up about 1.5 per cent of the population and they need our support. As a lesbian, I have not always felt welcomed in football. It’s time for me to stand up for my trans colleagues and friends in the game.”

The campaign will also be sharing content on pathways to play, highlighting routes to participation for trans men and women, as well as highlighting some of the playing opportunities for non-binary people. 

There will be other online activities throughout the week, including an LGBT+ 101 workshop and a Talking Trans event with the Football v Homophobia Youth Panel.