Norwich City and Charlton Athletic have both achieved Gold in the second wave of 2025/26 Equality Code of Practice (ECOP) results, the highest possible standard and a landmark moment for the programme.

This outcome builds on the first wave of results from earlier this season, where a record three Clubs won the top award, as Middlesbrough, Plymouth Argyle and Salford City were also awarded gold.

These are the next 36 clubs to receive their awards in what is the second wave of results, each demonstrating exceptional commitment to putting equality, diversity and inclusion at the heart of their operation.

History

First launching in 2012, the ECOP is now mandatory for all Clubs, after evolving into a tiered accreditation programme in 2022/23.

Every other season, Clubs undergo a full assessment, with a development year in between, ensuring steady, meaningful progress over time.

This season, 67 EFL Clubs will complete their ECOP assessment, joined by Carlisle United and Sunderland, who remain part of the programme.

The final five EFL Clubs have instead completed the Premier League’s equivalent, PLEDIS, as they were previously enrolled on that programme.

In the last cycle, two Clubs hit the Gold standard, and now, after all assessments have been completed, three Clubs have achieved Gold, a number that could continue rising.

It’s a powerful sign of the League’s collective momentum toward a more inclusive experience for all football fans.

Case Studies

One of the ECOP’s biggest strengths is its flexible framework, encouraging each Club to understand and respond to the needs of its own community.

This month’s results show that Clubs aren’t just meeting expectations, they’re exceeding them across every level, from Gold through to Silver and Bronze.

Across the country, Clubs are delivering standout projects that make a real difference:

Charlton Athletic

In the Gold section, Charlton Athletic’s annual Red, White and Black Day parade is a cornerstone of their long-standing commitment to equality and inclusion, woven into the fabric of the Club.

A proud part of the Club’s identity for more than 30 years, the initiative continues to unite players, fans, staff, partners and the wider community.

Bradford City

In the silver section, the Bantams v MND Dinner, hosted at the University of Bradford Stadium raised a total of £17,514 for the Darby Rimmer MND Foundation.

The evening, which included a live auction, featured a host of Stephen Darby’s former teammates and managers, along with current City manager Graham Alexander and his assistant Chris Lucketti.

Bolton Wanderers

Funded entirely by the Bolton Wanderers Development Association (BWDA) and built by Creative Activity, and in direct consultation with the Bolton Wanderers Disabled Supporters Association (BWDSA) and the Bolton Wanderers Supporters Trust, the Club officially opened its new Sensory Room at the Toughsheet Community Stadium.

The room provides supporters with sensory sensitivities a dedicated matchday space, removing a barrier that has made attending live football difficult or impossible for many fans and their families.

Two Clubs strike gold for the first time in EFL's Equality Code of Practice

Two Clubs strike gold for the first time in EFL's Equality Code of Practice