Tuesday, October 20, 2026
Police in Lancashire are stepping up efforts to tackle violence against women and girls with the launch of a new operation aimed at kicking out misogyny and sexual offending in football.
Operation Holcroft will deploy a range of policing tactics to make it clear that sexist, abusive and predatory behaviour has no place in the game.
Working alongside football clubs across the county, the operation will raise awareness of acceptable behaviour and reinforce key messages from the Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner’s Get the Message campaign.
Officers, stewards and matchday staff will also receive guidance on recognising, reporting and responding to incidents, ensuring victims receive the support they need and offenders face the consequences of their actions.
The officer leading the operation, Chief Inspector Mark Douglas said: "More women and girls are involved in football and attend matches than ever before, and everyone should be able to enjoy the game without fear of harassment or abuse.
"Sexist chanting, inappropriate comments, intimidation and abusive behaviour can have a significant impact on women attending football matches. This behaviour is not limited to the stadium or the duration of the game; it also takes place online. Women working at matches have also been targeted simply for doing their jobs.
“We know that the overwhelming majority of football fans do not behave in this way. However, for too long, certain actions have been excused as part of football culture. They are not. Such behaviour is unacceptable, and we are committed to tackling it wherever it occurs.”
The primary aim of Operation Holcroft, alongside the Get the Message campaign, is to change attitudes, prevent offending and create safer environments for women and girls. However, where offences do occur, victims will have clearer reporting routes and better access to support.
Chief Inspector Mark Douglas added: "Operation Holcroft is one of a number of initiatives designed to tackle violence against women and girls across Lancashire. Alongside operations such as NightSafe and No Excuse for Abuse, it sends a clear message: violence, harassment and misogyny will not be tolerated."
Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said: “I really welcome the launch of Op Holcroft, and I am proud to support the operational activity through my Get The Message campaign.
"Last year, more than 4,800 Lancashire women and girls responded to my survey, making it clear that issues like catcalling, unwanted comments and intrusive staring have a major impact on how safe they feel.
"We must stand together to challenge these behaviours and call them out wherever they happen and I'm pleased to see the support from the football community to help us tackle misogyny.
"By working with clubs, supporters and partners across Lancashire, we can challenge misogyny, change attitudes and ensure women and girls can enjoy the game free from harassment and abuse."