The “Tackle Racism by Text” service is a concept which stemmed from the Racism Just Ain’t Saintly (RJAS) group within the Southampton FC community scheme.
The group reported that 10 incidents of racism had occurred within the county of Hampshire in a year, however it was strongly believed that this was a false number and that more incidents were occurring but not being reported. This is how the idea for a text messaging service developed. A quicker and easier way for players, officials or spectators to report any racist incidents to the County FA was needed.
How will it work? Below is a step by step guide to how the system will work.
1. If a player, official or spectator is the victim of racist abuse of any kind, they send a text to 81066 using the key word “ALERT”
2. They will receive an automated reply explaining the next process.
3. A member of the Hampshire FA team will then contact the individual to obtain a statement.
4. Once the report has been collected it will be passed onto the discipline department where a case will be built and dealt with in the correct manner, potentially resulting in suspensions or fines.
The service will enable players, spectators and officials to report any incidents of racism in a safe and controlled manner. Don John, Stronger Communities & Equalities Team at Southampton City Council said “this service will prove to be an excellent means by which those who are subjected to racism and racist conduct or those that witness it can relay their experience confidentially without fear of intimidation or bullying.”
Mark Abrahams; Head of Saints in the Community added: “Southampton Football Club is committed to supporting the Football industry’s zero tolerance to incidents of racism. The text line offers a clear and direct route to report racist abuse in grass roots football and the Club is pleased to be working with Hampshire FA and the partners of the Racism Just Ain’t Saintly campaign to support this agenda.”