We have today revealed our year two update of our three-year equality, diversity and inclusion strategy, In Pursuit of Progress
Launched in 2018, In Pursuit of Progress set clear and ambitious targets to drive meaningful change within the organisation and across the game, focusing on initiatives to promote equality and increase the diversity of those playing, officiating, coaching, leading and governing English football.
It is a key part of our work towards tackling discrimination at all levels and ensuring opportunities are accessible for all.
We're now delighted to provide an update on the strategy’s focus areas, which include:
The FA and our culture
• Increased ethnic and gender diversity amongst The FA’s leadership, with 36 per cent female and nine per cent people from a Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic background
• Target achieved one year early for the number of female employees across the FA, while also reducing the gender pay gap and voluntarily publishing the ethnicity pay gap
The England teams’ support structure
• Second successful season of the Elite Coach Placement Programme, with seven coaches gaining opportunities within England teams, helping to build a more diverse talent pipeline
• Exceeded ethnicity and gender targets set for England coaching staff one year early
The Game’s grassroots workforce
• Growth in disability football with a six per cent increase in participation, a further £1m invested into the Disability Workforce Fund and 100 disability-specific recreation centres now operating
• Introduction of an industry-first regional Code of Governance, with provisions for gender diversity, ethnic diversity and youth representation across the County FA network
Inclusion programmes across the game
• Launch of the Football Leadership Diversity Code, with over 40 clubs committing to tackling inequality across their senior leadership, broader team operations and coaching teams
• The conclusion of the Heads Up campaign, culminating in the Heads Up FA Cup Final.
Throughout November, we'll bring to life the impact of In Pursuit of Progress to date across key areas, starting with a look at the Elite Coach Placement Programme during the week commencing 16 November.
This will be followed by a more detailed overview of our work to create more and better opportunities across grassroots football; broader inclusion programmes across the game; and initiatives specific to the women’s and girls’ game.
