Respect is The Football Association’s direct response to a clear message from the grassroots game: We must improve standards of behaviour – on and off the field.’

Respect within The Football Association is aimed at helping us all to work together to change the negative attitudes and abusive behaviour on the sidelines and on the pitch. It’s a long-term commitment, but if we all play our part, together we can really make a difference.

Our organisation has received a presentation on the FA Respect Programme. We fully support the FA Respect Programme.

The 2008/09 implementation of Respect is in 5 practical sections:

Respect Codes of Conduct

There is a Code of Conduct for each of the main types of football participant:

• Adult Players

• Youth Players

• Spectators and Parents/Carers

• Coaches, Team Managers and Club Officials

• Match Officials – Referees, Assistant referees, Fourth Officials and Substitute Referees.

Designated Spectators’ Area/Line

There will be a demarcated area along the touchlines, within which spectators must stay or remain behind. The idea is to encourage parents and spectators to take a step back from the pitch and support the teams in a more responsible manner.

Captain Taking Responsibility

There will be a drive to enhance captaincy skills, encouraging captains to take full responsibility for their players’ actions and behaviour. Referee managing the game  and there will be a similar drive to enhance referees’ match management skills to create an environment where potential problems are addressed before they escalate.

Support Referees

Respect aims to support referees to uphold the Laws of the Game.

Breaches of Spectators’ area/line will be reported to the Managers – Serious breaches shall be reported to the County.

Respect ‘Before Kick Off’

Before the commencement of the match it is suggested that the following procedures must be followed:

a) Home Team ensures pitch is prepared with Nets, Flag, Spectator area/line.

b) Home team to welcome Away team via Manager/Captain.

c) Referee inspects the pitch for safety and compliance.

d) Referee meets Assistant Referees.

e) Managers/Coaches implement procedure for verification of Player Identity Cards or Exchange of Teamsheets.

f) Referee performs separate Team briefing of Manager/Coaches and Team Captains on their requirements for the games.

g) Players and Referees perform a Fair Play line-up and handshake procedure on the centre line.

h) Managers/Coaches to enforce spectator area/line.

i) Referee to inform League of breaches.

j) NO ONE is allowed to encroach onto the pitch unless invited by the Referee.