The new code will require clubs to meet recruitment diversity targets for coaching positions
The Football Association has launched a new diversity code which it's hoped will increase the representation of minorities and women in football and tackle the level of racial inequality in the game.
The Football Leadership Diversity Code will look to create a more level playing field for BAME and female coaches. At present, just five of the 92 Premier League and EFL clubs are coached by BAME managers.
19 of the 20 current Premier League clubs have signed on to the code, with Southampton the only exemption among top flight sides.
It's understood the club, which says it is "wholly supportive" of the code, wants clearer information with regards to how it will fit in with the Premier League's Advanced Equality Standard before signing on.
A club spokesperson said: “Southampton FC are wholly supportive of the Football Leadership Diversity Code objectives. At this time the club consider its most appropriate course of action to wait and understand how a revised Premier League Equality Standard and the Football Leadership Diversity Code will work together and complement each other before revising our recruitment targets and already established processes.”
According to the BBC, the clubs which sign up for the initiative will agree on the following requirements:
- 15% of new executive appointments will be from a BAME background, with 30% female.
- 25% of new coaching appointments will be BAME and 10% of senior coaching appointments.
- 50% of new coaching appointments at women's football clubs will be female, with 15% BAME.
- Shortlists for interview will have at least one male and one female BAME candidate, provided applicants meeting job specifications apply.
Paul Elliott, chair of the FA's Inclusion Advisory Board, praised the work that clubs are currently doing, but stated that a code was needed for "long-term change" to happen.
"Many clubs are already doing good work in this area and we've been pleased to see football stand together this year to challenge the injustice we are seeing in society," he said.
"However, positive and tangible action is required to drive change and take the next step. We believe the introduction of the Football Leadership Diversity Code will signal a long-term change for the English game. The number and stature of clubs that have already agreed to join us on this journey proves that together, with clear goals, transparency and a desire for action, we can shape a better future together. We hope more clubs join us as we move forward."
