Flanagan's Football Files

As the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Lead for the league, I’m passionate about ensuring our league truly becomes a league for all.

We only have to look at the incredible rise of the women’s game over the past five years. When you watch a women’s match on TV, you see families of all ages and backgrounds in the stands. That’s no accident, it’s because the women’s game has worked hard to be inclusive and welcoming. Non-league football has a real opportunity to follow that example.

The beauty of EDI is that it reflects what football should be: a game for everyone, regardless of race, religion, gender, ability or disability. Most of us didn’t start out as non-league fans. We found our way here, some by chance, others because we fell out of love with the professional game. But when we arrived, we were accepted. Now it’s our turn to do the same and open the gates even wider.

Recently, I’ve begun conversations with the KidsOut charity, which supports children who have experienced abuse. We’re exploring ways to build projects between the charity and the league. I’ll keep you updated as this exciting partnership develops.

There are so many groups we can reach out to and welcome into our matches, local scout groups, elderly residents, disabled children and adults, blind and partially sighted fans, those facing mental health challenges, the list is endless. The key is removing barriers and breaking down outdated perceptions. If we can do that, the possibilities for our league are limitless.

Society is becoming more inclusive, and it’s time we reflect that progress in our game. By doing so, we not only strengthen the spirit of football but also continue to raise the profile of the Essex Senior League. Thanks to the dedication of our committee, we’ve already made huge strides and with our EDI commitment, we can go even further, becoming a shining example for all levels of the game.

Jimmy Flanagan