We've launched a survey as part of the consultation period for our reviewed and refreshed 2028 Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy.

The current strategy, the first ever published EDI strategy specific to Essex, was released in December 2023, and we'll shortly be embarking on a localised, updated version, in-line with our new #MovingForward 2028 Strategy. The survey is open from now until Monday 14th April for all football stakeholders and community groups, accessible via this link.

The EDI Strategy forms an integral part of our long-term commitment to creating a game free from discrimination. As we build this strategy, we’re undertaking a consultation process to help inform us of key football priorities in Essex. We’re keen to hear from organisations who have had limited engagement with us to date, and are keen to work more closely together.

The strategy will outline key development commitments across the protected characteristics to help promote and support inclusion across the county. It will operate across the governance side of the organisation, setting targets to increase the diversity of the County FA workforce, with a priority on improving representation across Board and Council.

Accessible for the entire football community, it will set clear direction towards driving meaningful changes within the organisation, and across the game. There will be a further focus on initiatives to promote equality and to increase the diversity of those playing, officiating, coaching, leading and governing football within Essex.

The survey should take no longer than ten minutes to complete, and is for football stakeholders across Essex and the Essex London Boroughs of Barking & Dagenham, Havering, Newham, Redbridge and Waltham Forest. This includes clubs, leagues and community organisations already engaging with the Essex County FA, as well as those who haven’t engaged previously.

Essex County FA Equality & Inclusion Officer, Milly Morgan, said: “We look forward to hearing the thoughts of everyone who we work with, or will continue to work with, in the future. These insights are invaluable in shaping a more inclusive and representative game for all. This consultation is a vital opportunity to ensure everyone has a voice in the future of football in Essex. We encourage you to take part and help us to drive meaningful change together.”

You can complete the survey until Monday 14th April and, if you have any questions relating to the consultation, please E-Mail milly.morgan@essexfa.com. We're also active on X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and TikTok.