Refugees: football weekend of action

We’re receiving an increasing number of requests from members and fans to respond to the calls to act over the refugee crisis that is dominating headlines. We’re just a football supporters trust, and the crisis raises much wider issues than we deal with. But that shouldn’t stop us responding in a humanitarian way. 

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Fans have asked if banners showing support for the refugees can be displayed in the away end at our match against Sunderland on 13 September, the weekend of international solidarity with refugees. We asked THFC to contact SAFC to find out, and we’ve been told that flags and banners supporting refugees will be allowed as long as they meet usual safety criteria. So that’s no large poles (under 1 metre), any sharp ends covered, fireproof, and they don’t cover hoardings or emergency entry or exit routes. We’re told banners can be placed on the netted seating area immediately in front of the away section.

Sunderland stewards are aware of fans’ intentions, as are the travelling THFC stewards and THFC’s Head of Supporter Services, who will be there on the day.

We’d also like to point supporters to more practical methods of support.

• Médicines Sans Frontiéres is one of many humanitarian aid agencies working on the ground to help refugees and they welcome donations.
• Calais Action is a grass roots movement co-ordinating the collection of practical aid for refugees.
• The International Rescue Committee is looking for both volunteers and donations.


THST Board
8 September 2015