County Collective Mission Statement:
‘An inclusive club at the heart of the community, achieving great things on and off the pitch’.
Football is for everyone; it belongs to, and should be enjoyed by anyone who wants to participate in it, whether as a player, official, staff member, volunteer, spectator or anybody who may access a Club’s facilities.
Encompassed through the principles of our Equality Campaign ‘County Collective’, Stockport County Football Club is driven by progression and the values of community, humility and togetherness, along with the belief that these values can empower people to lead better lives.
County Collective stands as Stockport County Football Club’s resolute commitment to ensuring that every individual who wishes to support, engage, or work for the club feels not only included but also valued. It’s an important move towards building an environment where diversity is embraced.
County Collective will serve as an all-encompassing platform, championing Stockport County Football Club’s commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion. Under this initiative, the club will introduce an array of activities, events, and recruitment initiatives designed to mirror the diverse essence of the local area.
We are very proud that Stockport is a diverse and vibrant community, and we believe that by embracing that diversity and making a commitment to increasing representation across all groups who interact with the club, we will improve our business performance, whilst ultimately providing greater opportunity for all.
The club’s commitment is to promote inclusion to and confront and eliminate discrimination whether by reason of age, gender, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, marital status or civil partnership, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, ability or disability, pregnancy and maternity and to encourage equal opportunities. These are known as ‘protected characteristics’ under the Equality Act 2010.
Stockport County Football Club will ensure that it treats everyone fairly and with respect and that it will provide access and opportunities for all members of the community to take part in, and enjoy, its activities. Every staff member, Board member, official, spectators, fan and visiting teams can be assured of an environment in which their rights, dignity and individual worth are respected, and in particular that they are able to work in and watch football in an environment without the threat of intimidation, victimisation, harassment or abuse.
At Stockport County, we are dedicated to promoting equality through all of our initiatives as well as prioritising the importance of looking after your mental health. Our Board of Directors and senior leaders affirm their responsibility in championing these values, ensuring they are integrated into all aspects of our club’s operations. By fostering an inclusive environment and prioritising mental well-being, we aim to create a supportive atmosphere where everyone feels valued and respected.
Tom Mahon, COO of Stockport County commented on the new initiative:
“The essence of County Collective is simple yet powerful – it’s about the entire Stockport community joining hands to support our local club and celebrate our shared spirit. We believe that by uniting as a collective, we can shape a future that thrives on inclusivity and embraces the rich tapestry of our community.
“The Club and The Board are determined to build a future where Edgeley Park is synonymous with diversity, respect, and unity, through County Collective, we’re calling upon our fans to be our partners in eradicating any form of discrimination and abuse.”
Stockport County Football Club is excited to take this transformative journey and invites every community member to be part of County Collective’s effort for positive change.
