A NEW action plan which aims to tackle homophobia across Scottish football has been launched.
The strategy, which the SFA, Football v Homophobia and Leap Sports launched at Hampden Park this morning, hopes to remove barriers and help LGBT people excel in the sport.
SFA chief executive Ian Maxwell said the organisation is "committed" to making Scottish football reflective and representative of the country's population.
He went on: "Anyone seeking to engage with football in Scotland should be able to do so in a welcoming environment, regardless of their sexual orientation and gender identity.
"This ground-breaking strategy will help to make Scottish football more inclusive for LGBTI participants and create an environment within our sport that we can proudly state is open to all.
"This strategy is the latest step in our drive to ensuring equality is embedded in Scottish football at all levels, and we are delighted to partner with Leap Sports and Football v Homophobia Scotland to create this strategy - the first of its kind in Scotland."
The strategy aims to make Scottish football equal and fair to all. The plan adopts a three-strand approach to creating sustainable change in the game, which involved work in policy and procedure, education and communication.
It aims to work in all areas and levels of the game.
Scottish football clubs will work with strategy partners to update policies and procedures and promote awareness campaigns, while an e-learning resource will be put together for clubs aiming to create and inclusive football environment for LGBT people.
It comes as part of a wider equality drive from the SFA to create a more inclusive environment in football.
The move follows the recent publication of the Scottish Football Supporters Survey, which revealed less than half of fans feel the game is an inclusive place for people of any sexual orientation.
Hugh Torrance, executive director of Football v Homophobia Scotland and Leap Sports, said: "With the launch of this strategy comes a very clear and intentional message that there is no place for LGBTI-phobia in Scottish football.
"The strategy provides a clear framework for stakeholders to plan change and take action.
"It's time to step up efforts and we look forward to supporting the Scottish FA on their journey."
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