BNU and Wycombe Wanderers launch research project into women's experiences of matchdays
BNU and Wycombe Wanderers Football Club (WWFC) are teaming up on a collaborative research project into the representation of women spectators at Adams Park on matchdays.
The project seeks to determine motivating factors for women fans’ attendance and non-attendance at WWFC fixtures and to help strengthen the sense of equality and inclusion felt by its women spectators.
Launching today on International Women’s Day, women fans of any club are invited to answer survey questions identical to those asked by the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) in its second Women At The Match survey undertaken in Autumn 2021.
The survey will look to capture a comprehensive picture on everything from your matchday experiences and your views on how your club engages with its fanbase to on-the-pitch issues. Findings and recommendations from the research will shape how WWFC continues to ensure women feel safe at matches and enjoy their experience.
The survey also comes ahead of the English Football League's nationwide Women’s Weekend campaign which seeks to celebrate women supporters whilst also trying to drive attendance among women and girls. The campaign asks clubs – and their fans - to seek to recognise the barriers in women attending fixtures and raise awareness of the work of clubs and club community organisations in this area, whether it’s setting up women focus groups, supporter groups, strategically consulting with women and girls on their experiences, or identifying key women supporters in their fanbase and community who may play a significant role in promoting the Club.
You can complete the survey here before it closes on Sunday 30 April. Findings and recommendations from the project will be published this summer ahead of any new measures taken ahead of the new 2023/24 season.
Dr Fiona McCormack, Associate Professor of Sport, Buckinghamshire New University, is leading the research project: “We are delighted to be starting this research project with Wycombe Wanderers to support their efforts to ensure that women and girls have a positive and enjoyable experience every time they visit Adams Park.”
Matthew Herring-Rogers, Head of Civic Engagement and Communications, Buckinghamshire New University: “This important research is one of many impactful collaborations BNU and Wycombe Wanderers are working on as part of our multi-year partnership, which includes a strong commitment to reducing inequalities and improving lives in the local community. This year’s theme for International Women’s Day is Embrace Equity and we look forward to identifying solutions to inform a more inclusive experience for all women spectators at Adams Park.”