Grimsby Town Football Club has achieved Bronze status in the EFL Equality Code of Practice, recognising the Club’s continued commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion both across the Club and within the wider community.
Initially launched in 2012, the EFL’s Equality Code of Practice recognises Clubs for their work to promote equality, diversity and inclusion and to ensure supporters are not discriminated against on the grounds of gender, race, religion, age or disability.
The Code encourages Clubs to understand the communities they represent and identify areas of under-representation, with the aim of creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and able to participate.
The Club continues to work across a range of areas to promote inclusivity, including regular staff training around equality, diversity and anti-discrimination, while our charitable arm, Grimsby Town Foundation, continues to develop relationships with local community organisations and deliver opportunities for people across North East Lincolnshire.
Vikki Harries, Safeguarding & EDI Manager, said:
“We’re delighted to have achieved Bronze status in the EFL Equality Code of Practice again and to have our ongoing work recognised by the EFL.
“Equality, diversity and inclusion remain important priorities for everyone at Grimsby Town, and we’re committed to ensuring that our Club is a welcoming and inclusive environment for supporters, staff and everyone connected with the Mariners.
“While this recognition is something we can be proud of, we know there is always more that can be done. We will continue to work with our colleagues, partners and community organisations to identify opportunities to improve and make a positive difference across the Club and the wider community.
“We’d like to thank everyone who continues to support our work in this area, and we look forward to building on the progress we have already made.”
The EFL’s Director of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, David McArdle, said:
“The EFL has a proud and diverse fan base, and it is important that our Clubs reflect the communities they represent, both on and off the pitch.
“The Equality Code of Practice is about helping Clubs make meaningful, long-term progress on equality, diversity and inclusion. It provides a clear framework while allowing each Club to focus on the needs of their own communities.
“Each Club’s result is a reflection of the commitment, hard work and impact they deliver every season and they should be proud of the progress they have made.”
First introduced in 2012, the Equality Code of Practice became a multi-level accreditation scheme in the 2022/23 season and is now mandatory for all EFL Clubs.
The framework helps Clubs track their progress and continue improving year on year, with assessments taking place every other season and a dedicated development year in between.
Grimsby Town remains committed to continuing its work in this area and ensuring Blundell Park and the wider Club are places where everyone feels welcome.
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