Rail Seating Debate2021-05-03T09:55:49+01:00
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Rail seating debate

SOS acknowledge that Liverpool FC and their support hold a unique position. We as Liverpool fans, more than many, know and understand the emotion and sensitivities surrounding this issue.

Following a survey we organised in July 2017, almost 18,000 supporters – an unprecedented number in football supporter surveys of this type – took part in our dialogue and 88% of respondents were in favour of rail seating areas at football and supporters having the choice to sit or stand.

Spirit of Shankly’s policy and position followed a sensitive, sensible, honest and mature conversation, throughout which key themes emerged: a choice for supporters between sitting and standing; safety for those who currently stand at games; and the safety of any future standing model.

Spirit Of Shankly would like to thank all those who participated so that supporters could make an informed decision. We would like to thank in particular the Hillsborough Family Support Group, Hillsborough Justice Campaign, and all the survivors and families of those at Hillsborough.

As part of our review we visited Celtic to investigate their safe standing area and speak to Celtic FC, police, Celtics Supporters Liaison and fans of the club. Our group included family members and survivors of Hillsborough. Dan Kay, Liverpool Echo documented the day.

Spirit of Shankly believe every club and their fans should be able to choose the model for their home stadium and work with the relevant authorities to meet prerequisite safety requirements.

Liverpool supporters, more than most, understand the arguments for safety and the emotion of such a debate. We also know fans are already standing at Anfield and across the county every week. They should be allowed to do so safely and in comfort.

SOS are supportive of the Labour Party’s position on the subject that supporters should have that choice and it be decided locally.

We will continue discussions with our members regarding our stance. We trust the ongoing government review will reflect the views and wishes of match going supporters around the country.

Related News

LFC to trial rail seating

LFC to Trial Rail Seating Spirit of Shankly welcome the news from Liverpool FC today that they are to trial the introduction of rail seating at Anfield this coming season. There will be a total of 7,800 places –1,800 in the Kop and 6,000 in the Lower Anfield [...]

June 15th, 2021|Rail Seating, Latest News, News|

DCMS Report on Standing

DCMS Report on Standing Spirit of Shankly note the publication of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) review of standing at football matches and the headlines and conclusions drawn from it. The main conclusion drawn today focussed on there not being enough evidence [...]

October 3rd, 2019|Rail Seating, Latest News, News|

SOS meeting Tracey Crouch MP

As the government’s review of safe standing at football matches continues, Spirit Of Shankly accepted an invitation to meet Minister for Sport, Tracey Crouch MP. This was an informal meeting, so that the Minister could hear our views and give us an update on government activity on the subject.

August 1st, 2018|News, Rail Seating, Union|

Rail seating vote – result

Following Spirit of Shankly’s consultations and discussions on rail seating, members and supporters have been voting for the past week. They were asked whether they are in favour, against or undecided on the introduction of rail-seating areas in football grounds.

July 31st, 2017|Rail Seating, Matchday, News|

Rail seating debate – Meeting dates

Earlier this year we published an updated timetable for making a decision on our position on rail seating. Unfortunately this was delayed, due to securing a venue and speakers for the meeting.  However we are pleased to announce confirmed dates for upcoming meetings, so that we can move the debate forward and arrive at a decision.

July 3rd, 2017|Rail Seating, Matchday, News|
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