Embrace Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion: Shape the Future of Football with Your Data

Football is a universal language that transcends boundaries and brings people together. It can be a powerful platform that celebrates diversity and fosters inclusivity, both on and off the field. 

At Berks & Bucks Football Association (FA) we are committed to creating an environment that reflects these values, and we need your help to make it happen. By filling in your Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) data via the FA portal, you have the power to shape the future of football in your community.

Unveiling the Power of Data

Data isn't just a collection of numbers and checkboxes; it's a powerful tool that can drive change and innovation. When players, coaches, referees, and volunteers provide their EDI data, they contribute to us collecting vital information that can guide the work we do in creating programs that are truly reflective of the counties' diverse populations.

Why Your Data Matters

1. Representation Matters: By sharing your EDI data, you're ensuring that football is a sport for everyone, regardless of their background. Your data will help the FA better understand the demographics of those involved in the game, allowing them to tailor programs to meet the needs of all players, coaches, referees, and volunteers.

2. Informed Decision-Making: Data provides insights that enable informed decision-making. When the FA has accurate EDI data, they can identify gaps in representation, address potential biases, and design initiatives that promote fairness and equality.

3. Creating Inclusive Programs: Football programs should be inclusive and accessible to all. Your data will assist in designing coaching sessions, training materials, and events that cater to different communities, making everyone feel welcome and valued.

4. Measuring Progress: Filling in your EDI data is like marking the starting point of a journey. As time goes on, the FA can track progress and improvements in diversity and inclusion efforts, celebrating achievements and identifying areas that still need work.

Callum Salhotra, Community & Inclusion Manager at Berks & Bucks FA, said: "Collecting Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion data from all users is an essential step towards building a football community that truly embraces everyone. This data serves as the compass that guides us in creating initiatives that are not only reflective of our counties' diversity but also ensure that every individual feels valued and included. The more data we have, the clearer our path becomes in shaping a future where football truly becomes a sport for all."

Shaping the Future Together

We want to encourage all players within BBFA to complete our EDI Survey. This will help us shape future programmes and reach out to groups who are not currently playing football.

1. Visit www.myaccount.thefa.com
2. Log in to your account
3. Click on the "DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION" tab
4. Fill in your answers
5. Click on "Save"

Participants need to be 16+ to complete the survey.

Conclusion

Football has the power to inspire, educate, and unite. By sharing your EDI data, you're taking an active role in shaping the future of football in the Berks and Bucks counties. Your participation isn't just about ticking boxes - it's about creating a legacy of diversity, equity, and inclusion that future generations can enjoy.