There is now a new protocol, issued by The FA, that is aiming to deal with the match-day process for match officials where discriminatory behaviour by spectators is witnessed during a game at grassroots level. 

The protocol, which can be downloaded below, is aimed at incidents of discriminatory abuse by spectators. The match referee must report all incidents brought to their attention to the relevant County Football Association as an extraordinary incident even if they themselves did not hear the abuse.

Clubs are responsible for monitoring, reporting and acting on abuse from their spectators. Offenders should be identified and dealt with efficiently by the clubs while ensuring the match, where possible, is not unduly interrupted.

The protocol applies specifically where incidents are heard or witnessed by players, managers or match officials on the pitch. 

It aims to ensure that any discriminatory abuse directed at players, managers or match officials is effectively addressed and that participants feel protected. 

Offenders should be identified and dealt with efficiently by the clubs while ensuring that the match, where possible, is not unduly interrupted

For more information about the protocol please contact: 

Football Services
T: 01903 753547
E: Info@SussexFA.com