Pompey and Plymouth will be supporting the Offside Trust at Saturday’s League One fixture.
One year ago, the brave decision by a handful of former footballers to speak out about the sexual abuse they suffered as children shone a light into football’s darkest secret.
One by one, many others followed. Across the whole country and from all sports, survivors came forward.
Figures released in October 2017 reveal that 784 survivors and 285 suspects have been identified so far. The age range at the time of the abuse spans from four to 20-years-old.
The Offside Trust, the organisation established by survivors for survivors, is providing guidance and support throughout the healing journey.
Steve Walters from the Offside Trust said: “We are grateful to Portsmouth and Plymouth for giving us the platform to publicise our work.
“We are working with former players from the south coast and a number of our ambassadors have close connections with the area.
"We have been able to raise the profile of the issue and break the silence that existed around this previously taboo subject."
“2017 has been a year that will never be forgotten by everyone involved in the Offside Trust. Thanks to the hard-work and commitment of so many people, we have been able to raise the profile of the issue and break the silence that existed around this previously taboo subject.
“2018 will be an important year as we roll out support for survivors and their families, and continue to raise awareness so that children can enjoy sport in a safe environment.”
Colin Farmery, Pompey’s head of safeguarding, added: “We are delighted to be able to support the work of the Offside Trust.
“At Portsmouth FC our safeguarding responsibilities are paramount and we work closely with stakeholders, both in and out of football, to ensure children are safe first and foremost.”
For more information on its work and how you can support the Offside Trust, please follow them on social media and check out the website.