Lincoln United are celebrating after being nationally recognised for their exceptional efforts to encourage a diverse range of people to get involved in football.
The Whites were awarded a much-lauded three-star England FA accreditation on Tuesday for their work with the region’s LGBT+ communities and promotion of disability football.
It is the first in the region to receive the honour.
Among the club’s initiatives have been launching a rainbow kit worn by the club’s LGBTQ+ team and hosting a weekly United by Pride social night – which has seen a 300% rise in attendance since the start of the season.
Zack Leader, head of media with the Whites, said: “This team breaks down barriers in society and shows LGBTQ+ people not only belong in football but can also be successful in football.
“No other team is doing the same [in Lincolnshire]. This is what separates us.”
Gemma Bell, who does community work for the club, said that is was important for the club to inspire and empower the community we live in.
She said: “Although it’s semi-professional football, its more than that, and everyone has an open door at Lincoln United. It is important to serve the community we are in. “Football is for everybody and that’s what’s special and unique about United.”
