Bedfordshire FA has a football for all policy and believes that football belongs to and should be enjoyed by anyone who wants to participate in it. We firmly believe that Gender Identity, along with the other 8 protected characteristics identified in The Equality Act 2010: Disability, Race or Religion, Ethnicity, Marriage or Civil Partnership, Sexual Orientation, Age, and Pregnancy and Maternity, should not be barriers to participation in football.

FA chief executive Martin Glenn has endorsed the guidance as an important tool to ensure all communities are encouraged to participate in.

He said: "This guide shows how to engage trans people appropriately and help you access this talent pool. Understandably, it covers the basics so if you need further advice there are links to more information and contacts at the end of the guide.”

Using case studies, legislation and testimonials from trans people involved in football, the guide was produced for clubs, leagues and other groups and individuals in football, in conjunction with Gendered Intelligence, an organisation which provides helpful tips and support on how the 'T' community can best be embraced.

The FA’s corporate affairs manager (Equality & Diversity), Funke Awoderu, is keen for County FAs and grassroots and semi-professional clubs to make use of the document.

She said: “You may not even know a trans person is on your team – you can’t assume that all trans people will be visible, nor that they will stand out through being particularly good or bad at football.
“However, if someone transitions while being part of a team or approaches a team and discloses their trans status then several factors come into play, so this guide can really come into its own as an aid to grassroots clubs.”

Download the guidance document here.

The guide accompanies The FA’s Trans Policy, a first-of-its-kind document released in 2014 for any transsexual or transgender person wishing to play in their affirmed gender.

The application takes 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.

For further information or questions about this policy, please contact Bedfordshire FA Inclusion and Safeguarding Officer Sarah DaCosta in confidence on 07960 500723 or email Sarah.DaCosta@BedfordshireFA.com