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19 July 2026

Practical audit process for teams: policies, hiring, fan engagement, merchandising, and broadcast language

Discover a practical approach to auditing your team's lgbtq inclusion, covering key areas such as policies, hiring, fan engagement, merchandising, and broadcast language

Practical audit process for teams: policies, hiring, fan engagement, merchandising, and broadcast language

Auditing a team’s LGBTQ inclusion is crucial to ensure a welcoming environment for all fans and stakeholders. A comprehensive audit process involves evaluating various aspects of the team’s operations, including policieshiring practicesfan engagementmerchandising and broadcast language.

Developing a Comprehensive Audit Process

To conduct an effective audit, teams should establish clear key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure their progress. This may include tracking the number of LGBTQ-friendly events hosted, the percentage of LGBTQ-inclusive merchandise sold, or the frequency of LGBTQ-affirming language used in broadcasts.

Conducting Stakeholder Interviews

Stakeholder interviews are a vital component of the audit process, providing valuable insights into the team’s culture and practices. Teams should interview a diverse range of stakeholders, including fans, players, staff, and sponsors, to gain a comprehensive understanding of their experiences and perceptions.

Evaluating Policies and Procedures

Teams should review their policies and procedures to ensure they are LGBTQ-inclusive. This includes evaluating their anti-discrimination policiescode of conduct and reporting mechanisms for incidents of homophobia or transphobia.

Assessing Fan Engagement and Merchandising

Teams should assess their fan engagement strategies to ensure they are LGBTQ-welcoming. This includes evaluating their social media presencemarketing campaigns and merchandising options to ensure they are LGBTQ-inclusive.

Implementing Changes and Monitoring Progress

Following the audit, teams should implement changes to address any areas of concern. This may include developing new policiesproviding training for staff and players, or launching new initiatives to promote LGBTQ inclusion. Teams should also establish a system to monitor their progress and make adjustments as needed.

Author

Thomas Wood

Thomas Wood, Leeds-based and modern-relaxed in style, once rerouted a weekend to cover a community arts co-op launch in Harehills rather than a planned corporate brief. Champions approachable analysis that centres local voices and keeps a habit of sketching street scenes between edits as a distinguishing detail.