More Greater Manchester Police officers recruited for Man Utd and Man City WSL games this season
More specialised police officers have been recruited to attend Manchester United and Manchester City women’s football fixtures this season.
An extra 17 female operational football officers have been selected by Greater Manchester Police for deployment during the 2024-25 Women’s Super League season. They will go to Old Trafford, the Etihad Campus and Leigh Sports Village to provide a reassuring presence, help to keep families safe and listen to any concerns.
Over the years, the number of specialised officers has steadily increased to a pool of around 77 to help support both men’s and women’s matches. GMP says they have been extensively trained in public order and threat assessments and are highly skilled in spotting crowd dynamics and engaging with the public.
The force has been discussing with clubs its plans for the forthcoming season around violence against women and girls and safeguarding, to allow cross-working collaboration and research.
Sgt Neil McQueen, from the specialist operational planning unit, said: “These officers deployed to games will provide visible reassurance to supporters attending, both travelling to the venue and once inside.
“We know WSL fixtures in particular are extremely positive experiences that are safe, welcoming and inclusive environments, but with the increased popularity, coverage and bigger crowds at larger venues, we have to remain ahead of the game and ensure we provide sufficient support to our clubs, like we would for any large-scale event in Greater Manchester.
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“Our officers will be proactive individuals who will always take charge of any situations that arise when needed to ensure our priority of keeping the public safe remains that way.
“Over the last couple of years, we have made a significant investment and push to encourage more of our female officers to take up the role to provide that better and more specialised support to females attending these fixtures. We know having a role model and someone to look up to helps engagement and reassurance.
“As always if you ever feel unsafe, unsure or upset, please report it to us at the earliest opportunity when safe so we can review and look to take the appropriate action.”