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Women in Football would like to recognise Eniola Aluko’s immense courage over a gruelling period of 18 months. We applaud her commitment to unearthing the truth, her fortitude throughout and her vision to make football a better place for others. It is appalling that her efforts saw a stellar international career derailed by the very system that was meant to protect her.

For WiF, now in our 10th year as an organisation, this is an all too familiar narrative for female whistleblowers and victims of discrimination in the football industry. Our survey results show that, while over 60% of women have witnessed sexism in the workplace, fewer than 1 in 10 will ever report it. That is because they fear they will not be taken seriously. Time and again that has proven to be the case.

In 2017 women in the football industry should not be treated as second class citizens. Their complaints should not be routinely ignored and dismissed, as their abusers are protected. Women deserve to be listened to, respected and supported. Football will be a better place as a result.

These problems are longstanding and entrenched. They are not down to any one individual, and indeed, there are individuals at The FA and across football who care about making things better.

To create meaningful change there must be a heartfelt commitment to bold action within the governing body. WiF hopes that The FA understands this challenge and purposeful progress is now achieved.

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