Recognising the Contribution that Football Clubs and their Fans Make to Society

That the Parliament notes that football is one of the most loved and successful sports in the country and that Scotland boasts some of the most loyal supporters anywhere in Europe, but believes that, often, fans feel they are taken for granted or are an afterthought; considers that, across the country, including in the Central Scotland region, supporters groups and community trusts or charitable foundations attached to professional clubs are often enhancing their environment and giving back to those who find themselves in challenging situations, from foodbank collections to mental health initiatives; believes that football fans are often the beating heart of their communities, creating unity in spaces where division can be prevalent; considers that, with rising living costs, varying ticket prices and high transport costs, the current landscape is making it difficult for working-class fans and families to afford to follow their club, an outlet, it believes, that allows hundreds of thousands of people across the country an escapism and a sense of optimism in a time of struggle; recognises that a price cap has been in place in England for over a decade and means that travelling fans do not pay more than £30 for a ticket, yet understands that no such cap exists at present in Scotland; notes the calls for all 42 Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) clubs, as well as the Scottish Football Association (SFA) to put fans first; further notes the view that the voices of supporters should be heard by decision makers and amplified within the Scottish Parliament, and notes the belief that those running the national game should listen to the calls from the Scottish Supporters Collective and many fans across the country and cap away football ticket prices at £25.