Forming an integral part of their long-term commitment to creating a game free from discrimination, we are proud to share our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy, the first ever published EDI strategy specific to Essex.

This EDI strategy, running until 2024, outlines key commitments across the protected characteristics to help promote and support inclusion across the county. It will act as a bridging document for the current season ahead of the release of refreshed focuses and targets in-line with our forthcoming overall strategy until 2028, which is currently out for local consultation.

It outlines commitments for development of the game, as well as operating across the governance side of the organisation, setting targets to increase the diversity of our workforce, with a priority on improving representation across Board and Council.

Hafiza Patel, Essex County FA Inclusion and Advisory Board Chair and Independent Non-Executive Director, commented: “I love how football brings together communities on a global, national and local level. This EDI strategy is aimed at unlocking a wealth of talent, creativity and collaboration and helping many communities to achieve their goals. Together, we can make sure every individual is valued, every voice is heard, and everyone is empowered to play.”

The EDI strategy is accessible for the entire football community, setting clear direction towards driving meaningful changes within the organisation, and across the game. There is a focus on initiatives to promote equality and to increase the diversity of those playing, officiating, coaching, leading and governing football within Essex.

Milly Morgan, Essex County FA Equality & Inclusion Officer, added: “Tackling discrimination across the county, whilst developing inclusive opportunities, is not a new priority for the County FA, and we want to share the great work we have done over recent years. We firmly believe that everyone has the right to play football, and this strategy will play a role in helping us to deliver on our long-term commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.”

You can view the strategy below. It will be updated in the coming months as part of our overall four-year strategy up to 2028, highlighting how the we aim to implement The FA’s ‘A Game For All’ Strategy on a local scale. You can also interact with @EssexCountyFA on Twitter/X and by searching for ‘EssexFootball’ on Facebook.