Time - A Painting for the SFA Hampden Stadium & Adult Voices
It is with great honour that we present ‘Time’, a profound painting commissioned by the Scottish Football Association (SFA) to be displayed permanently within Hampden Park, the National Stadium of Scotland. This artwork, completed in early 2025 by renowned Scottish artist Kevin Hunter, stands as a moving tribute to those affected by non-recent sexual abuse in Scottish football, reflecting a commitment to remembrance, healing, and progress.
‘Time’ is not merely a painting but a powerful testimonial that acknowledges the deep and lasting impact on individuals who courageously shared their experiences through the Adult Voices group. This collective of survivors worked closely with Kevin Hunter, ensuring that the artwork authentically represents their stories with dignity and respect.
The creation of this permanent memorial follows a key recommendation from the Independent Review into Sexual Abuse in Scottish Football, initiated in 2016. The review, published in 2021, led the Scottish FA to offer a heartfelt apology to survivors on behalf of the sport, marking a pivotal moment in the organisation’s journey towards accountability and safeguarding.
This review provided survivors with a vital platform to share their testimonies, shedding light on the pain endured and driving necessary reforms. Their courage has paved the way for significant improvements in child protection policies and practices within Scottish football, ensuring a safer environment for future generations.
Since the review, the Scottish FA has implemented several initiatives aimed at enhancing wellbeing and protection for children and young people involved in the sport. These include strengthened reporting mechanisms and mandatory training for Child Wellbeing and Protection Officers at every club, reflecting a dedicated culture of safeguarding.
The unveiling of ‘Time’ took place in a solemn ceremony in the President’s Suite at Hampden Park, symbolising the ongoing commitment of the Scottish FA to honour survivors and promote healing. Ian Maxwell, Chief Executive of the Scottish FA, highlighted this dedication, stating:
“Since the publication of the Independent Review in 2021, addressing its recommendations has been a paramount priority for us, both as a board and an association. This unveiling represents the latest significant stride in our ongoing commitment.”
“Our Wellbeing and Protection Team has achieved remarkable advancements over the past four years. They have significantly strengthened the robust mechanisms for reporting and managing child wellbeing and protection concerns, and crucially, ensured that every club now has a trained Child Wellbeing and Protection Officer in place, fostering a safer environment for all young participants.”
“As noted in the report, Scottish football owes an enduring debt of gratitude to the strength and courage of those who spoke out. We have conscientiously ensured that the wishes of the Adult Voices group were respectfully considered at every stage of developing this powerful memorial.”
Kevin Hunter shared his reflections on the creative process, revealing the deeply personal nature of the project. As a passionate supporter of the Scotland national team, he initially viewed the commission as a football-related opportunity but soon recognised its profound human significance. Hunter explained:
“I drew inspiration from my own cherished memories of playing football as a child, enriching this with extensive research into historical photographs of children playing games in front of tenements. I also gathered invaluable personal stories by conversing with my father and other members of older generations about their childhood experiences, ensuring the painting resonated with a collective past.”
“The creative process was a blend of smiles and tears, with moments of genuine doubt about my ability to truly capture the essence of the brief. Therefore, receiving the feedback from the Adult Voices after I submitted the painting was far more than just a relief - it was a profound validation of the entire challenging yet rewarding journey.”
“The most moving aspect, however, was receiving personal messages directly from the group members. That was an unexpected and deeply touching gesture, making me feel truly honoured to have contributed to such an important memorial.”
An anonymous representative from the Adult Voices group reflected on the importance of the artwork and its role in commemorating a difficult chapter in Scottish football history:
“I was approached by the Scottish FA to suggest a respectful method of commemorating a period in Scottish footballing history that has left such a solemn and widespread impact.”
“Reflecting not just on my own thoughts and memories, but also on the shifting perspectives of so many others across the country, made my idea of a commissioned painting quite clear. A piece of art or a painting often possesses the unique ability to forge a cultural bond, regardless of where we grew up, and can also powerfully transcend time, speaking to generations.”
“This painting, I believe, has brilliantly captured the essence of the brief and can effortlessly evoke the spirit of any town in Scotland across different eras. It offers everyone a vital opportunity to reflect, understand, and then look forward with a sense of peace and contentment. I am incredibly thankful to Kevin the artist, whose remarkable skill and deep understanding have managed to translate the collective thoughts and memories of a nation onto canvas.”
“Despite my experiences, I have always considered myself fortunate. I must extend my deepest gratitude to my family and friends for simply affording me the time, space, and the courage to help others. I also thank the Scottish FA for their selfless commitment, professionalism, and understanding, for meeting with so many, and, most importantly, for simply listening.”
This painting not only honours those affected but also serves as a continual reminder of the Scottish FA’s ongoing responsibility to protect and support all individuals in the football community.
Key Features and Benefits of ‘Time’
- Permanent Memorial: A lasting tribute displayed at Hampden Park, the heart of Scottish football.
- Authentic Representation: Created with direct input from the Adult Voices group, ensuring genuine and respectful portrayal.
- Artist’s Expertise: Kevin Hunter’s deep connection to Scottish football and meticulous research imbue the painting with historical and emotional depth.
- Symbol of Healing and Accountability: Reflects the Scottish FA’s commitment to learning from the past and fostering a safer future.
- Educational Impact: Raises awareness about the importance of safeguarding and the realities of abuse, encouraging open dialogue in the sport.
- Supports Policy Development: Helps reinforce the significance of wellbeing and protection policies within Scottish football.
Supporting Wellbeing and Protection in Scottish Football
In line with the values embodied by ‘Time’, the Scottish FA offers comprehensive wellbeing and protection policies to safeguard children and young people involved in football. These resources aim to promote safe, inclusive, and supportive environments throughout the sport.
For detailed information on Child Wellbeing and Protection Policies, visit the official Scottish FA Wellbeing and Protection Resources.
Helplines and Support Services
If you or someone you know requires support or wishes to discuss experiences related to abuse in football, the following helplines are available:
- Police Scotland: 101
- NSPCC Helpline for people abused in football: 0800 023 2642
- Scottish FA Support Contact: childrenswellbeing@scottishfa.co.uk
‘Time’ stands as a testament to the resilience of survivors and the ongoing evolution of Scottish football towards a safer and more compassionate future. By honouring the past, it inspires reflection, understanding, and a collective commitment to wellbeing and protection within the sport and beyond.
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