First Touch Panel Discussion

The panel discussed what has been put in place to try to change the culture in football, how successful it has been, and what more needs to be done.

The panellists included:

Nikki Disney – Nikki is a Dramatherapist who works with theatre companies to support the creation of art which deals with challenging themes. She has supported the wellbeing of the company of First Touch.

David Lean – Abuse survivor and campaigner, David was a key figure in exposing the scandal of abuse within the football world.

Nathaniel Price – Nathaniel is a writer for film, television, theatre and radio. As a youth player he was contracted to Crystal Palace F.C, until injury prevented him from continuing. First Touch is his first full length play.

Sue Ravenlaw – Sue is an ex England Footballer, and has been Head of Safeguarding at the Football Association since 2006, working with her team to influence the way the game seeks to protect and safeguard those involved – especially children and adults at risk.

The discussion was chaired by Adam Penford, Artistic Director of Nottingham Playhouse.

If you’ve been affected by any of the issues raised in this discussion we have put together some resources here.