The FA has launched a first-of-its-kind policy on transgender and transsexual people playing football – as it continues its drive to make the game open to everyone.
On Tuesday Wembley Stadium connected by EE plays host to a LGB&T-focused workshop where the new guidelines will be discussed.
Any transsexual or transgender person wishing to play in their affirmed gender can seek to do so by contacting The FA to obtain clearance.
“This is a pioneering move for football and one which is designed to help give visibility to the trans community”
Funke Awoderu
FA Equality Manager
The application will take the form of a confidential conversation with the applicant and details of the evidence that The FA would require will be discussed with the person concerned.
Funke Awoderu, The FA’s equality manager, said: “This is a pioneering move for football and one which is designed to help give visibility to the trans community.
“It is something true to The FA's mantra that football really is for everyone and I'm pleased this provision has been made to trans people wanting to get involved in our national game.'
You can read the policy as well as browse a list of FAQs here
Tuesday’s event welcomes groups and individuals working across the game in the LGB&T field with Manchester City, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur as well as a number of county FAs.
A second event will take place at St. George’s Park on Tuesday 2 December.
Both events are free and will offer attendees the opportunity to learn how best to engage with LGB&T groups and initiatives in football.
Guest presenters include the Gay Football Supporters’ Network, Kick It Out, Just A Ball Game?, Stonewall and Transsexuals in Sport.
The sessions will examine homophobia, biphobia and transphobia in football, the language used, the impact it has and some best practice examples of what is happening across the game to counter the abuse.
