Kick It Out has released a statement following the recommendations proposed to the Football League board, aimed at increasing employment opportunities for managers and coaches from black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds.
Lord Herman Ouseley, Chair of Kick It Out, football’s equality and inclusion organisation, said: “We commend Football League clubs for backing proposals put forward by Greg Clarke to install open and transparent recruitment practices aimed at increasing the level of black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) representation in management and coaching positions.
“We recognise the lengthy and painstaking process led by Clarke to achieve this breakthrough commitment. He should be credited for the consultation he has undertaken with the main footballing bodies and anti-discrimination organisations and campaigners, and for showing leadership in this area after criticism of the Football League last year for its lack of activity on this front.
“Clarke has the knowledge of how Football League clubs run and function, and he will appreciate the process has taken far longer than we, and many others, would have liked. These are positive early steps towards ensuring there is greater BAME representation across English football and it is pleasing to see the Football League publicly announcing and committing to clear targets.
“This offers future opportunity for existing qualified BAME coaches, including those who have gained the necessary experience but continue to feel they are met by barriers throughout the game, to be considered for interviews when vacancies are available for appointments. It also raises the confidence of others who are presently pursuing their coaching badges.
“It is nevertheless a sad fact that most professional football clubs continue to have recruitment policies and practices which are not open, objective, competitive, fair and accountable. It is our hope that this moment of enlightenment might stir some into adopting best practices in recruitment, appointment and retention to achieve equality and diversity outcomes.
“Professional football clubs should reflect the demography of their location and the aspirations of the communities surrounding their existence. We look forward to continuing discussions with the Football League ahead of its 2016 Annual General Meeting before the formal vote is cast by clubs on these proposals. The timescale requires ratification with implementation still some way off.”