Rail Seating Debate2024-09-06T13:45:02+01:00

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.

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