The work done by Chesterfield FC and Chesterfield FC Community Trust to promote inclusion has been recognised on a national level with the presentation of the Non-league Club award at the Football v Homophobia Awards 2024.

Darren Yates and Ellie Yates from Rainbow Spireites, the official Chesterfield FC LGBTQ+ supporters’ group, represented the club at the event, which was held at the National Football Museum in Manchester.

Summing up the reasons for honouring the Spireites, Football v Homophobia said: “From education around equality to the establishment of the Rainbow Spireites group, National League front-runners Chesterfield are among the clubs between Steps 5 and 8 who are setting the standard in inclusion too. 

“Initiatives include a launch at the town’s local Pride festival and pre-match socials for fans. A first-of-its-kind partnership with Derbyshire FA saw all staff trained on how to create welcoming environments, while a project was also created to encourage children and young people to talk about allyship.”

John Croot, chief executive of the club and the Community Trust, said: “We are proud of the work being done by the club and the Trust to promote inclusion, both in football and in the community.

“It is very pleasing to see the efforts put in by everyone involved recognised on a national level.

“Our thanks go to Football v Homophobia for the award and to Rainbow Spireites for representing the club at the event.”

Chesterfield Football Club supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.