What discussions it has had with football supporters’ clubs regarding sectarianism.

The Scottish Government recognises the importance of engaging with football supporters on this agenda. That is why, following the Football Summit in March, we provided further funding to Supporters Direct in Scotland to engage directly with football supporters to seek their views on how best to positively influence behaviours in and around football matches. This included a focus on tackling sectarian behaviours.
Supporters Direct used their extensive range of contacts with fans and supporters’ groups to establish four focus groups including female fans, younger fans, older, male fans and disabled fans. This direct engagement with supporters has helped to explore when unacceptable behaviour occurs and how best to positively influence behaviours exhibited both within and outwith the football stadium. This project also considered potential policy and practice implications for football clubs, football authorities and the Government.
The report of this project is currently in the process of being finalised and the final report will be shared with the Joint Action Group to inform the next phase of the work of this group.