Making Football Fully Professional

Karen Carney, former Lioness, has called for both divisions of women’s football to become fully professional, a recommendation that has been backed by the UK government. Carney’s proposal was part of a major independent review into the future of the women’s domestic game, commissioned after the Lionesses’ victory in the European Championship last summer.

Improved Mental Healthcare

The review also recommends top-quality mental healthcare support for players in the top two tiers of women’s football. This comes at a time when the emotional welfare of female players has come under scrutiny, highlighting the need for comprehensive support.

Independent Body to Govern Women’s Super League

The government’s acceptance of Carney’s recommendations comes shortly after the announcement that the Women’s Super League and Women’s Championship will be overseen by an independent body from next season. This move was among the proposals made by Carney’s review and is seen as a positive step for the future of women’s football.

Funding for Union Representation

Carney’s review also calls for funding to provide full union representation for players in the top-flight and second tier of women’s football. This move aims to ensure that players have a voice in decision-making processes and are properly represented.

“Gold Standard” Physical and Mental Health Support

In addition to union representation, the review pushes for the provision of top-quality physical and mental health support for players. This measure aims to prioritize the well-being of female players and create a supportive environment within the sport.

Dedicated Broadcast Slot

Carney’s recommendations include a dedicated broadcast slot for televising women’s weekend fixtures. This move would increase visibility and exposure for women’s football, allowing fans to follow the game more easily.

PFA and Kick it Out Support

The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) and anti-racism organization Kick it Out have both welcomed the measures proposed by Carney’s review. The PFA emphasizes that making women’s football professional should extend beyond contractual obligations and also focus on how players are treated and supported by clubs and leagues.

Karen Carney expressed her optimism about the government’s support, stating, “I hope the additional investment and support from the government is the boost for the FA, the incoming NewCo, and other stakeholders of the game to rally around this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transform domestic women's football.”