Nil by Mouth is set to expand its impactful ‘Us and Them’ programme into Renfrewshire thanks to a £2,000 funding boost from the Merchants House. 

This initiative aims to help teenage football fans explore their identity and behaviour in relation to football culture in Scotland, particularly addressing issues of sectarianism and prejudice.

Working with a selection of authors, Nil by Mouth produced a book entitled ‘Us and Them’, which contains eight chapters focusing on football rivalry. This can be used with small, focused groups of young people to stimulate discussion and to help them consider their attitudes. Written with football fans in mind, the programme is very relevant to young people and has proved particularly popular amongst young males. The book acts as a catalyst in channelling their interest in sport more positively, whilst also providing a positive educational experience.

Funding from The Merchants House provides the opportunity to bring the ‘Us and Them’ programme to Renfrewshire, to work with teenagers who have been identified as at risk of becoming involved in anti-social behaviour around Scottish football. Participants will have the opportunity to work with notable figures such as sportswriter Daniel Gray on podcast production and to visit Hampden Park to explore the evolution of the sport in Scotland.

Nil by Mouth said “This support assists us in effectively challenging sectarian and prejudicial attitudes and means those participating will gain a much better understanding of cultures and belief different to their own. Because of your generosity and partnership we can make a real difference at what is a pivotal time in these young people lives while continuing to strive for meaningful change. Scotland can be better and bolder than bigotry!”

Nil by Mouth is a registered Scottish Charity, based in Glasgow but working throughout Scotland. It exists solely for the purpose of achieving a society free from sectarianism, where cultural and religious diversity is respected and celebrate by everyone. Nil by Mouth challenges intolerance and prejudice by providing awareness raising workshops to schools, workplaces and other groups. 

Nil by Mouth works in partnership with a variety of organisations and has been involved in a multitude of anti-sectarian projects over the years. It is a small organisation largely comprised of a group of volunteers who give freely of their time, skills and experience.

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