Football can be a powerful tool for bringing people together and a cause for celebration for so many around the world.

There is still a lot of work to do but over the last few years, a lot of good work towards tackling homophobia in football has been done. The majority of major teams/leagues have embraced campaigns such as OneLove, FootballForEveryone and Rainbow Laces, there has been overwhelming support for the high level players that have come out in the last few years and a lot of the LGBTQ+ fan groups are being given representation.

Unfortunately, a lot of the progress made by these initiatives within football will be hindered by FIFA deciding to go ahead with hosting the World Cup in Qatar. In Qatar, homosexuality is illegal, with non Muslims facing up to 7 years in prison and Muslims facing anything from imprisonment to the death penalty. During a World Cup, it should be a time for everyone to come together and celebrate their mutual love of football. I can't begin to imagine how it must feel for any gay players or fans that want to support their team knowing that FIFA is supporting a country that criminalises them.

During this World Cup, I will be donating £10 to MindOut for every goal England score in a tiny attempt to bring some positives from negative situation.

MindOut is a Brighton based mental health service run by and for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer people.They work to improve the mental health and wellbeing of all LGBTQ communities and to make mental health a community concern.

The work they do is so important for those who have used their services and has undoubtedly helped 1000s of people that have experienced homophobia.

I'm hoping by creating a justgiving page for my donations, I can encourage others to do the same or similar.

Thank you for reading and please donate if you can.