PLEDIS provides a framework to help clubs progress equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) across all areas of their business, including the work of their community trust (or equivalent), with the hope of promoting equality, diversity and addressing all forms of prejudice, ensuring football is open and welcoming for all.

The club has undergone a period of transformative growth over the past few years, and EDI is embedded in all that we do. The appointment of a DEI and culture lead, as well as the introduction of a designated disability access officer has helped us make significant progress in our EDI development.

To be awarded this accreditation, the club was assessed by an independent panel that required us to share comprehensive evidence that we are meeting a range of requirements from an EDI perspective.

Our ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture within the club has been showcased through impactful campaigns and initiatives, such as the launch of our Women’s Empowerment Network, the Unite for Access campaign and our enhanced, league-leading parental leave policies.

Similarly, the work happening across the Chelsea Foundation in the wider community such as the Inspire Her and Blue Creator Fund initiatives are evidence of a holistic, multifaceted approach designed to tackle complex issues.

Jason Gannon, COO and president of Chelsea FC, said: ‘We are delighted to have been recognised by the Premier League for our commitment to EDI. We shared our vision with the panel and our progress and bold delivery plans for the future contributed to this accreditation being awarded.

'While we have made progress across the business, the leadership team know there are areas we can continue to improve on. Our strategy directly addresses those areas, and we are continually working to build a genuinely inclusive, dynamic and vibrant culture at CFC.

'We each have a role to play in this important journey ahead and our commitment is to continue to lead the charge in this space.’

Trisha Champaneri, DEI and culture lead, said: ‘The strength of our approach lies in its simplicity: we believe that whoever you may be, you deserve to feel welcome at Chelsea Football Club and our plan sets out to achieve just that. In this difficult landscape in the world of EDI, we cannot lose sight of the broader purpose – we are creating a culture of kindness, curiosity and acceptance and it is without question the right thing to be doing. To us a diverse culture is crucial – a celebration of intersectionality, where diversity of thought is valued and nurtured.’

Kuljit Randhawa, head of diversity and inclusion strategy at the Premier League, said: ‘We are proud to award Chelsea Football Club the Advanced Level Health Check of the Premier League Equality Diversity and Inclusion Standard.

‘The PLEDIS Panel commended Chelsea’s proactive approach and dedication to understanding its workforce through advanced data practices, alongside mature governance structures at Chelsea FC Women and initiatives like the Players’ Trust, which underscores its commitment to progress. The club’s efforts to combat online hate to protect players and fans further highlight its leadership in driving positive change.

'We congratulate the People Team and Chelsea’s leadership for their vision and hard work, and we look forward to seeing their continued impact in advancing equality, diversity and inclusion.’

Professor David Ruebain, PLEDIS chair, said: ‘I am very pleased that Chelsea FC have been successful in their submission for the Advanced Level Health Check of the PLEDIS. The PLEDIS Panel acknowledges the club's sincere and energetic commitment to EDI, with enhanced data collection arrangements and tailored initiatives including staff networks, alongside steps to ensure an environment where staff and players feel safe to speak up. We look forward to supporting and recognising continuing progress.’

• Click to find out more information on the Premier League Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Standard