KICK IT OUT and Her Game Too, which challenges sexism in sport, announced yesterday a joint venture to support those who have experienced sexist and misogynistic abuse in football.

The relationship will see the two organisations working collaboratively to handle reports of sexism and misogyny, with Kick It Out’s reporting team handling incoming reports and Her Game Too leading on victim support through its network of volunteer ambassadors based at clubs across the country.

The two organisations said that the collaboration is a step towards giving women more confidence to report sexism and misogyny by creating a transparent central reporting method and ensuring that additional support is available.

The relationship will also provide vital insight into the experiences of women fans to ensure that football takes the issue more seriously.

The announcement follows the launch of the Kick Sexism Out campaign in September — also supported by Her Game Too, Sky Sports and White Ribbon — to combat sexism and misogyny in football. 

New research commissioned by Kick It Out showed that over half (52 per cent) of women have experienced or witnessed sexist behaviour or language on matchdays.

Furthermore, 85 per cent of those who had experienced or witnessed sexism or misogyny said they had never reported this abuse, with many saying it was because they didn’t think it would be taken seriously or make a difference.

The campaign comes after a significant increase in reports of sexism to Kick It Out over the past two seasons. The campaign group’s research also revealed that almost one in four women do not feel safe at football matches, which rises further among underrepresented groups such as black, Asian, mixed heritage, disabled or LGBTQ women.

Her Game Too launched in 2021 has made important strides in raising awareness of the issues women face in football. 

Kick It Out chief operating officer Hollie Varney said: “As reports of sexism and misogyny in football continue to rise, this relationship is an important step to ensuring that those who experience discrimination are listened to and have the support they need.

“As part of this relationship, Kick It Out will continue to manage reports, work with clubs and governing bodies to drive positive outcomes for those who experience sexist abuse, and monitor discrimination trends so that we can push for change. Meanwhile, Her Game Too will focus on supporting those impacted by sexism.

“At Kick It Out, we believe working collaboratively to drive change is the best way to combat discrimination. We look forward to working alongside Her Game Too to create a safer and more inclusive game for women.”

Her Game Too CEO Caz May said: “We are delighted to be joining forces with Kick It Out officially. Their team have an extremely experienced team dedicated to handling reports, and with Her Game Too being run by volunteers, it makes sense to spread the workload across both organisations. 

“Her Game Too will still be on hand to support victims, offering face-to-face or virtual meet ups with our ambassadors and advisers across the country. 

“On top of this, we will continue to work with clubs to promote the message of gender inclusivity through dedicated match day activations. 

“We are grateful to Kick It Out for its support and belief in the work we are doing. Together, we are going to make a lasting difference.”