On Thursday 20 October, Brentford FC Community Sports Trust hosted a Show Racism the Red Card workshop for local school children.

Students from six local primary schools participated in an educational session before enjoying a tour of the Gtech Community Stadium.

The day culminated with a Q&A, which was hosted by Brentford FC non-executive director Deji Davies.

The panel included former England striker Eni Aluko; Club ambassador Marcus Gayle; and Brentford’s head of football operations Lorna Falconer.

Falconer joined Brentford in 2015 after leaving the Football League.

One of the few black women in a position of power across the men's professional game, her department deals with everything from team travel and logistics to player care.

“There have been a few challenges to say the least,” Falconer told the students.

“It’s nice to know that I’ve probably opened the doors for other young black women, so they don’t have to face the challenges that I faced.

“When I see another young black woman, whether she’s working in the industry or doing something that she is passionate about, if I’ve helped her get there then that is an achievement.”

Aluko, who made 102 appearances for the Lionesses from 2004 to 2016 and is currently the sporting director at Angel City FC, underlined the importance of such events in creating discussion about diversity, inclusion and race.

“To see different types of people on the panel here today, all sharing our experiences and engaging in conversation, helps to remove any uncomfortable feeling talking about race or black history,” she said.

“Football is really great in that you see so many different types of people on the pitch playing.

“With regards to racist incidents on or off the pitch, I think it’s more about what’s being done to ensure people understand that it isn’t acceptable.

“For me, the punishments around racism have to be strong and we need to instill the confidence that if someone does report an incident that something will be done about it.”

One of the students attending was Wafaa from Rabbsfarm Primary School, who commented: “Today I learnt that many different types of people can be racist. I also found out that people can be judged on their nationality, culture or religion and that racism isn’t just about how you look or your skin colour.”

Find out more about Show Racism the Red Card, and our award-winning Community Sports Trust.