Sheffield Wednesday is set to launch a partnership with the Football Safety App at its Together Against Racism fixture at Hillsborough on Saturday 17 October.

The announcement says the reporting tool, championed by former England striker Emile Heskey, will be promoted around the stadium and on the big screen.

The platform is intended to help supporters, players and officials report abuse connected with football, including racism, sexism and threats.

Sheffield Wednesday supporters in the Hillsborough stands
Supporters at an earlier Hillsborough fixture. Image supplied with the announcement.

A route for reporting concerns

According to the app’s team, reports are assessed by trained analysts and credible incidents can be passed to clubs, safeguarding teams, online platforms or police as appropriate.

Heskey said: “Everyone should be able to go to a match, support their team or step onto the pitch without being subjected to abuse.”

He added: “Launching at the Together Against Racism fixture sends a strong message, but what matters is giving people a practical way to act long after the final whistle.”

Wednesday captain Liam Palmer said: “Our club welcomes supporters, players and staff from all walks of life and it’s important for everyone to know they have an outlet to report unacceptable behaviour when it occurs.”

The club’s website is also expected to direct supporters to reporting information. The Football Safety App team says the app is free to download and use.

The announcement describes a reporting service; it should not be treated as a substitute for contacting emergency services when immediate help is needed.