Lewes Football Club has become the first club to give equal pay to both the men’s and women’s teams.
Alongside paying their teams the same wage, the teams will both receive the same budgets which will help ensure that both genders have the same access to coaching, equipment and facilities.
The move is part of the semi-professional club’s Equality FC campaign and is funded by the club, donors and sponsors.
The men’s team is currently competing in the Isthmian League Division One South; while the women’s team plays in the Premier League Southern Division.
Director Jacquie Agnew said, “At Lewes FC, we believe that there should be a level playing field for women in football.”
“By committing to paying our women’s and men’s team equally, and providing equal resource for coaching, training and facilities, we hope to spark a change across the UK that will help put an end to excuses for why such a deep pay disparity has persisted in our sport.”
“Together with our owners, donors and sponsors, Lewes FC can show that equal pay can be implemented to the benefit of both women and men in sport and beyond.”
Lewes women’s manager, John Donoghue continued, “I am proud that Lewes FC has stepped up to launch the Equality FC campaign.”
“Every day, I see the passion and commitment our players have for the game, and I am sure this is mirrored across the country in women’s football.”
“For female players to have the same rewards as their male counterparts for doing the same job is a fantastic leap forward for women’s football.”
“This sends a powerful signal to not only our players and our club, but to the whole UK football community that women’s football deserves an equal voice and support to men’s.”
