Football is at “a pivotal moment” to tackle equality, sexism and misogyny in the game, says Women In Football (WIF) chief executive Yvonne Harrison.
This week, WIF board members addressed Football Association chair Debbie Hewitt at the House of Lords in London to discuss their “mission to propel change”.
Harrison says football bodies “want to work with us” to make change and are willing to work together.
“What can we do together? The work we do is about trying to drive change to make the game better for everyone and particularly for women,” Harrison told BBC Sport.
“There’s some really great things happening in the industry but also some really not-great things.
“It’s our responsibility to make sure we bring that to the fore. [It’s about] having those conversations to ensure that women are protected and represented.”
According to WIF’s annual survey, only 10% of Premier League board members and 5% of EFL Championship board members are women.
Of women in football, 89% surveyed have experienced gender-based discrimination at work.
Meanwhile, more than 60% said no action was taken when they reported discrimination.
“Women fear they are not going to be eligible for promotion or they will be the ones that are seen as trouble-makers. It’s why they don’t often report [discrimination],” added Harrison.
“Our surveys are anonymous so that shows that we have a strong number. Another 16% said nobody even listened to them. That’s an important stat.”
One of WIF’s main goals is to lobby government on the code of practice that will sit within the Independent Football Regulator remit.
They believe it should include targets for diversity and inclusion.
“We have suggested a target of at least 30% representation of women,” said Harrison.
“Obviously, you want 50% of men and women but some organisations are so far off that, so it gives them a target.
“You want the best minds and a different kind of thinking sat around the board table.
“The other thing for us is open recruitment. We want really transparent recruitment processes. The best people will come through.”
Harrison said WIF will continue to work with governing bodies and clubs but welcomes more support within the organisation.
“If you care about gender equality and genuinely want to make a difference within football then it’s free to join our organisation,” she added.
“We can support and accelerate that change. We represent the 10,000 women that are our members and we will continue to drive change.”