Members of the grassroots football community can play an important part in Essex progressing towards ‘Intermediate Level’ of the Equality Standard by completing a short, online profile survey.

Achieving this level is a crucial part of the overall Essex County FA ‘Moving Forward’ Strategy for 2018-2021 and the data collected will evidence underrepresented groups not participating in football so an equality action plan can be introduced. The Equality Profile Survey will also help to shape football inclusion projects in the future.

In July 2015, the County FA successfully achieved the ‘Preliminary Level’ of the Equality Standard for Sport, embracing an Anti-Discrimination Plan and continuing to work to address the key issues and the challenges which exist within the county. To achieve ‘Intermediate Level’, Essex needs to achieve many outcomes, including the completion of an equality profile of stakeholders.

The online audit is designed for everyone involved in grassroots football in Essex, and takes a few minutes to complete. There are versions both for youths and for adults. Football Development Officer, Cindi Chatha, is seeking the support of local club officials, coaches and playing staff, detailing: “It’s crucial that we obtain a snapshot of where we are in the county.”

“We’re moving towards achieving this Equality Standard level by the end of the season, and a lot of work has been completed on this. An Equality Audit is the main piece of work we have left which is required to achieve this, and we’re asking for the support of players, coaches and referees.”

To complete the short Equality Profile Survey, please follow the links below. There are youth and adult versions. Information is also shared on Twitter by @EssexCountyFA and details can also be found by searching for ‘EssexFootball’ on Facebook.