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Liverpool FC and the rest of the Premier League continue to strive for greater awareness and support for members of the community and to put an end to discrimination within the game.

The Premier League have their Rainbow Laces campaign, which is held every year to celebrate LGBTQ+ inclusion across all of English football, not just the top flight.

Kop Outs has been Liverpool's official LGBTQ+ supporters' group since it was founded in 2016.



Founded by Paul Amann almost a decade ago, the group has continued to offer a voice to members of the community and help with the club's efforts with inclusion, equality, and diversity.

"We raise awareness of the challenges the community faces when simply trying/wanting, or actually celebrating football and their club," says Sheena, secretary for Kop Outs and member of the group's committee.

"We promote change, education, inclusion, and most of all, a welcoming atmosphere for our members."

Kop Outs have met with Jurgen Klopp and Jordan Henderson in the past during the duo's time at Anfield to help raise awareness for LGBTQ+ rights.

Former Reds stars Neil Mellor and Becky Easton were in attendance, and Sheena has explained why the event was so important.

"It was a great event which offered an amazing networking opportunity, and allowed some members to share their stories or journeys and how they support the Reds," says Sheena.

"It really allowed us to share insight into what it’s like as an LGBTQ+ person attending the game, or how one may feel about attending - or not as the case may be - how they may overcome some incidents or attitudes and what steps we can take to support one another and share that awareness."

Liverpool fans display a Kop Outs flag during the Premier League trophy parade(Image: Jess Hornby/Getty Images)

Members from Kop Outs regularly attend Anfield matches.

Sheena says Liverpool's support has been "invaluable."

"Not only do we, as Kop Outs attend [matches at Anfield], it’s a great day out," she says.

"By sharing the inclusive nature of our group and acceptance, we encourage, we hope this supports the same from within the stands and our fan base."

Raising awareness has not been without its challenges, though.

Sheena has pointed to derogatory terms and chants which have been heard in the stands in the past.

"Some friends are worried or are in fear of attending a football match, which limits interaction and also their enjoyment of the game," says Sheena.

"Personally, it’s really disappointing when I hear some use derogatory terms towards others.

"I just want to enjoy watching my team and enjoy it with fellow supporters."

Even though important strides and improvements have been made to raise awareness, Sheena says there's more that needs to be done.

"We need to be promoting positive representation within the club and wider," says Sheena.

"Support for Kop Outs and other LGBTQ+ supporters' groups needs to be enhanced - share the groups, share links to the official groups and encourage the social element of the game.

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"There needs to be more education/awareness.