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COVID-19 Guidance for Referees

Detailed guidance for match officials in grassroots football

Now the UK Government has given approval for outdoor competitive grassroots football and training sessions to re-start, The FA has produced the below detailed guidance for match officials in relation to football in England.

It applies to outdoor youth and adult football, as well as the small-sided game. For now, indoor football and futsal are not permitted.

It should be read in conjunction with the Government’s latest COVID-19 guidance and is based on the Government’s framework for a return to recreational team sport. Should Government guidance change in response to the current COVID-19 Alert Level, The FA guidance will be updated accordingly.

Please remember: Referees should only return to football when it’s right for them to do so. There is no pressure to return and there will be no consequence or judgement for not returning. Everyone’s health, wellbeing and safety are the priorities.

GENERAL PRINCIPLES
The overriding principles to help safeguard the wellbeing of all match officials in the matchday environment are to:
• Minimise face-to-face contact where possible;
• Avoid lengthy periods of time in enclosed spaces;
• Ensure appropriate hygiene protocols are always in place;
• Encourage maintenance of appropriate social distancing measures.

Summary of Covid-19 guidance on re-starting competitive grassroots football - For Referees

Re-starting outdoor competitive grassroots football - Summary for Referees

Issued on 30 July 2020

Referee Developers appointed by the County FA (Observers, Coaches and Mentors) are permitted to attend matches to support referee development.

All Referee Developers must follow the guidance for spectators covered in The FA’s COVID-19 Guidance on re-starting outdoor competitive grassroots football. It is important that any Referee Developer attending a match should contact the home club before matchday to let them know they’ll be attending.

Thank you in advance for playing your vital part in helping our great game get going again. By observing Government guidance and the football-specific protocols, let’s work together to ensure the transition back to competitive grassroots is as smooth and safe as possible.

Important: If you are showing symptoms of the virus or have been in contact with someone displaying symptoms within the last two weeks, then you must stay at home until an NHS practitioner advises you that you no longer need to remain in isolation.

Should you need any support or advice, please contact our refereeing team:

Refereeing
T: 01903 768573
E: Referees@SussexFA.com

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