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The Constitution rules and guidelines that Mulbarton Wanderers and
Belles follow are laid out below. They are also available to
download here as a pdf document. (3.3MB)
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Constitution and Club Rules 2008/2009
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1. Name
The club shall be called “Mulbarton Wanderers & Belles Football Club”
hereafter to be referred to as the "Club", and shall be affiliated to
Norfolk County Football Association. Teams will play under the names of
“Mulbarton Wanderers” and “Mulbarton Belles”.
2.Objects
The objects of the Club shall be to provide facilities, promote the game
of Association Football, to arrange matches and social activities for
its members and community participation in the same.
3.Status of Rules
These rules (the "Club Rules") form a binding
agreement between each member of the Club.
4.Rules and Regulations
(a) The members of the Club shall so exercise their rights, powers and
duties and shall,
where appropriate use their best endeavours to ensure that others
conduct themselves so
that the business and affairs of the Club are carried out in accordance
with the Rules and
Regulations of The Football Association Limited ("The FA"), County
Football
Association to which the Club is affiliated ("Parent County
Association") and
Competitions in which the Club participates, for the time being in
force.
(b) No alteration to the Club Rules shall be effective without prior
written approval by the Parent County Association. The FA and the Parent
County Association reserve the right to approve any proposed changes to
the Club Rules.
(c) The Club will also abide by The FA's Child Protection Policies
and Procedures, Codes of
Conduct and the Equal Opportunities and Anti-Discrimination Policy as
shall be in place
from time to time.
5.Club Membership
(a) The members of the Club from time to time shall be those persons
listed in the register of
members (the "Membership Register"), which shall be maintained by the
Club Secretary.
(b) Any person who wishes to be a member must apply on the
Membership Application Form
and deliver it to the Club. Election to membership shall be at the
discretion of the
Club Committee and granted in accordance with the anti-discrimination
and equality
policies, which are in place from time to time. An appeal against
refusal may be made to the Club Committee in accordance with the
Complaints Procedure in force from time to time. Membership shall become
effective upon an applicant's name being entered in
the Membership Register.
(c) In the event of a member's resignation or expulsion, his or her
name shall be removed
from the Membership Register.
(d) The FA and Parent County Association shall be given access to
the Membership Register
on demand. This would be under supervision of the “Club”, and upon
submission to the “Club” of CRB registration numbers of those persons
who would be authorised to view the information. The information, once
checked would not be held by the FA or the PCA nor passed on to any
third party.
6. Annual Membership Fee
(a) An annual fee payable by each member shall be determined from time
to time by the Club Committee and set at a level that will not pose a
significant obstacle to community participation. Any fee shall be
payable on a successful application for membership and
annually by each member. Fees shall not be
repayable.
(b) The Club Committee shall have the authority to levy further
subscriptions from the
members as are reasonably necessary to fulfil the objects of the Club.
7. Resignation and Expulsion
(a) A member shall cease to be a member of the Club if, and from the
date on which, he/she
gives notice to the Club Committee of his/her resignation. A member
whose annual
membership fee or further subscription is more than two (2) months in
arrears shall be
deemed to have resigned.
(b) The Club Committee shall have the power to expel a member when,
in its opinion, it would
not be in the interests of the Club for them to remain a member. An
appeal against such a
decision may be made to the Club Committee in accordance with the
Complaints Procedure
in force from time to time.
(c) A member who resigns or is expelled shall not be entitled to
claim any, or a share of any, of
the income and assets of the Club (the "Club Property").
8.Club Committee
(a) The Club Committee shall consist of the following Club Officers:
Chairperson, Vice
Chairperson, Treasurer, General Secretary, Child Protection Officer and
Minutes Secretary and up to ten other members, elected at an Annual
General Meeting.
(b) Each Club Officer and Club Committee Member shall hold office
from the date of
appointment until the next Annual General Meeting ("AGM") unless
otherwise resolved
at an Extraordinary General Meeting ("EGM").One person may hold no more
than two
positions of Club Officer at any time. The Club Committee shall be
responsible for the
management of all the affairs of the Club. Decisions of the Club
Committee shall be
made by a simple majority of those attending the Club Committee meeting.
The Chairperson of the Club Committee meeting shall have a casting vote
in the event of a tie. Meetings of the Club Committee shall be chaired
by the Chairperson or in their absence the General Secretary. The quorum
for the transaction of business of the Club Committee shall be six.
(c) Decisions of the Club Committee of meetings shall be entered
into the Minute Book of the
Club to be maintained by the Club Secretary.
(d) Any member of the Club Committee may call a meeting of the Club
Committee by giving
not less than seven days' notice to all members of the Club Committee.
The Club
Committee shall hold not less than four meetings a year.
(e) An outgoing member of the Club Committee may be re-elected. Any
vacancy on the Club
Committee, which arises between Annual General Meetings, shall be filled
by a member
proposed by one and seconded by another of the remaining Club Committee
members and
approved by a simple majority of the remaining Club Committee members.
(f) Save as provided for in the Rules and Regulations of The FA, the
Parent County
Association and any applicable Competition, the Club Committee shall
have the power to
decide all questions and disputes arising in respect of any issue
concerning the Club
Rules.
(g) . The position of a Club Officer shall be vacated if such person
is subject to a decision of
The FA that such person be suspended from holding office or from taking
part in any
football activity relating to the administration or management of a
football club.
9. Annual and Extraordinary General Meetings
(a) An AGM shall be held in each year, no later than 30th June to:
(i) receive a report of the activities of the Club over the previous
year;
(ii) receive a report of the Club's finances over the previous year;
(iii)elect the members of the Club Committee; and
(iv) consider any other business.
(b) Nominations for election of members as Club Officers or as
members of the Club
Committee shall be made in writing by the proposer and seconder, both of
whom must
be existing members of the Club, to the Club Secretary not less than 21
days before the
AGM. Notice of any resolution to be proposed at the AGM shall be given
in writing to the Club Secretary not less than 21 days before the
meeting.
(c) An EGM may be called at any time by the Club Committee and shall
be called within 21
days of the receipt by the Club Secretary of a requisition in writing,
signed by not less than
five members stating the purposes for which the Meeting is required and
the resolutions
proposed. Business at an EGM may be any business that may be transacted
at an AGM.
(d) The Secretary shall send to each member at their last known
address written notice of the
date of a General Meeting (whether an AGM or an EGM) together with the
resolutions to be
proposed at least 14 days before the meeting.
(e) The quorum for a General Meeting shall be 6
(f) The Chairperson, or in their absence a member selected by the
Club Committee,
shall take the chair. Each member present shall have one vote and
resolutions shall be
passed by a simple majority. In the event of an equality of votes the
Chairperson of the
Meeting shall have a casting vote.
(g) . The Minutes Secretary, or in their absence a member of the Club
Committee, shall enter
Minutes of General Meetings into the Minute Book of the Club.
10. Club Teams
At its first meeting following each AGM the Club Committee shall appoint
a Club member
to be responsible for each of the Club's football teams. The appointed
members shall be responsible for managing the affairs of the team. The
appointed members shall present to the Club Committee at its last
meeting prior to an AGM a written report of the activities of the team.
11. Club Finances
(a) A bank account shall be opened and maintained in the name of the
Club (the "Club
Account"). Designated account signatories shall be the Club Chairperson,
the Club
Secretary and the Treasurer. No sum shall be drawn from the Club Account
except by
cheque signed by two of the three designated signatories. All monies
payable to the Club
shall be received by the Treasurer and deposited in the Club Account.
(b) The Club Property shall be applied only in furtherance of the
objects of the Club. The
distribution of profits or proceeds arising from the sale of Club
Property to members
is prohibited.
(c) The Club Committee shall have the power to authorise the payment
of remuneration
and expenses to any member of the Club (although a Club shall not
remunerate a
member for playing) and to any other person or persons for
services rendered to
the Club.
(d) The Club may provide sporting and related social facilities,
sporting equipment, coaching,
courses, insurance cover, medical treatment, away match expenses,
post-match
refreshments and other ordinary benefits of Community Amateur Sports
Clubs as
provided for in the Finance Act 2002.
(e) The Club may also in connection with the sports purposes of the
Club:
(i)sell and supply food, drink and related sports clothing and
equipment;
(ii) employ members (although not for playing) and remunerate them for
providing goods and services, on fair terms set by the Club Committee
without
the person concerned being present;
(iii) pay for reasonable hospitality for visiting teams and guests; and
(iv) indemnify the Club Committee and members acting properly in the
course of
the running of the Club against any liability incurred in the proper
running of
the Club (but only to the extent of its assets).
(f) The Club shall keep accounting records for recording the fact
and nature of all payments
and receipts so as to disclose, with reasonable accuracy, at any time,
the financial position,
including the assets and liabilities of the Club. The Club must retain
its accounting records
for a minimum of six years.
(g) The Club shall prepare an annual "Financial Statement", in such
format as shall be available
from The FA from time to time. The Financial Statement shall be verified
by an independent,
person and shall be approved by members at the general meeting. A copy
of any Financial Statement shall, on demand, be forwarded to The FA.
(h) The Club Property, other than the Club Account, shall be vested
in not less than two and no more than four custodians, one of whom shall
be the Treasurer (“the Custodians”), who shall deal with the Club
Property as directed by decisions of the Club Committee and entry in the
minute book shall be conclusive evidence of such a decision.
(i) The Custodians shall be appointed by the Club in a General
Meeting and shall hold office until death or resignation unless removed
by resolution passed at a General Meeting.
(j) On their removal or resignation a Custodian shall execute a
Conveyance in such form as is published by The FA from time to time to a
newly elected Custodian or the existing Custodians as directed by the
Club Committee. The Club shall, on request, make a copy of any
Conveyance available to The FA. On the death of a Custodian, any Club
Property vested in them shall vest automatically in the surviving
Custodians. If there is only one surviving Custodian, an EGM shall be
convened as soon as possible to appoint another Custodian.
(k) The Custodians shall be entitled to an indemnity out of the Club
Property for all expenses and other liabilities reasonably incurred by
them in carrying out their duties.
12. Dissolution
(a) A resolution to dissolve the Club shall only be proposed at a
General Meeting and shall be carried by a majority of at least
three-quarters of the members present.
(b) The dissolution shall take effect from the date of the
resolution and the members of the Club Committee shall be responsible
for the winding up of the assets and liabilities of the Club.
(c) Any surplus assets remaining after the discharge of the debts
and liabilities of the Club shall be transferred to another Club, a
Competition, the Parent County Association or The FA for use by them for
related community sports.
13 Amendment of Constitution
(a) This Constitution may be added to, repealed or amended by resolution
at any Annual General Meeting or Extraordinary General Meeting, provided
that no such resolution shall be deemed to have been passed unless it is
carried by a majority of at least two thirds of members voting thereon.
(b) A proposal to change the Constitution must be submitted in
writing to the General Secretary who shall circulate the proposal to all
members and allow seven days for submission of any amendments before
calling a meeting in accordance with rule 8 above.
(c) All proposals for changes to the Constitution shall be signed by
two members eligible to vote at a General Meeting.
14 Club Assets
The Club’s assets and finances shall be used solely to further the
objects of the Club. At no time or under no circumstances shall assets
of the Club be distributed among members either on an interim or on a
winding up basis.
15 Declaration
It is hereby certified that this document represents a true and most
up to date version of the Constitution of Mulbarton Wanderers & Belles
Football Club.
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Club Code of Conduct for Football
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Community
Football, at all levels, is a vital part of a community. Football will
take into account community feeling when making decisions.
Equality
Football is opposed to discrimination of any form and will promote
measures to prevent it, in
whatever form, from being expressed.
Participants
Football recognises the sense of ownership felt by those who participate
at all levels of the game. This includes those who play, those who coach
or help in any way, and those who officiate, as well as administrators
and supporters. Football is committed to appropriate consultation.
Young People
Football acknowledges the extent of its influence over young people and
pledges to set a positive example.
Propriety
Football acknowledges that public confidence demands the highest
standards of financial and
administrative behaviour within the game, and will not tolerate
corruption or improper practices.
Trust and Respect
Football will uphold a relationship of trust and respect between all
involved in the game, whether they are individuals, clubs or other
organisations.
Violence
Football rejects the use of violence of any nature by anyone
involved in the game.
Fairness
Football is committed to fairness in its dealings with all involved
in the game.
Integrity and Fair Play. Football is committed to the principle of
playing to win consistent with Fair Play.
Code of Conduct for Coaches
Mulbarton Wanderers & Belles Football Club Code of Conduct for
Coaches
Set out below is The FA Coaches Association Code of Conduct (which
reflects the standards
expressed by the National Coaching Foundation and the National
Association of Sports Coaches),which forms the benchmark for all
involved in coaching.
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Coaches must respect the rights, dignity and worth of each and
every person and treat each equally within the context of the sport.
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Coaches must place the well-being and safety of each player
above all other considerations, including the development of
performance.
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Coaches must adhere to all guidelines laid down by governing
bodies.
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Coaches must develop an appropriate working relationship with
each player based
on mutual trust and respect.
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Coaches must not exert undue influence to obtain personal
benefit or reward
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Coaches must encourage and guide players
to accept responsibility for their own
behaviour and performance.
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Coaches must ensure that the activities they
direct or advocate are appropriate for the age,
maturity, experience and ability of players.
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Coaches should, at the outset, clarify with the
players (and, where appropriate, parents)
exactly what is expected of them and also what they, as players, are
entitled to expect
from their coach.
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Coaches must co-operate fully with other
specialists (e.g. other coaches, officials, sports scientists, doctors,
physiotherapists) in the
best interests of the player
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Coaches must always promote the positiveaspects of the sport (e.g. fair play) and never
condone violations of the Laws of the Game,
behaviour contrary to the spirit of the Laws of
the Game or relevant rules and regulations or
the use of prohibited substances or
techniques.
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Coaches must consistently display high
standards of behaviour and appearance.
12. Not to use or tolerate inappropriate language
Team Matters
A player shall not be allowed to sign for or be transferred to any other
team unless he/she has the Manager’s/Coach’s express permission to do
so.
It shall be deemed misconduct for a player to:
(i) Play for more than one team in the same league in the same season
unless having been transferred.
(ii) Play for more than one team in different leagues without the
Manager’s/Coach’s express permission.
(iii) Sign for any other team in the same season without being
transferred, and without the Manager’s/Coach’s express permission.
(iv) Submit a signed Registration, which he has wilfully completed
inaccurately with omissions.
Should a player sign for any other club without the Manager’s/Coach’s express permission, the Management Committee has the power to suspend
and/or disqualify the player in question in any or all games/training
during that season.
Should a player sign for any other club he/she must have discharged
fully his/her responsibilities to Mulbarton Football Club. It shall be
deemed unethical for a player to train with another team during the same
season without the Manager’s/Coach’s express permission.
Players representing the Club shall pay a competition match fee only for
5-a-side competitions, to assist in defraying running expenses.
Players who have been selected to play or invited to train and are not
able to participate must notify the appropriate Team Manager/Coach as
early as possible.
The Team Managers will be responsible for team selection and all
discipline. The team Managers will be responsible for the Youth Members
for the duration of the sessions. Parents/guardians must be informed of
the duration of the sessions. The Team Managers and Coaches/assistants,
officials, should be the only adult member participating in any sessions
involving Youth Members
Code of Conduct for Players
Obligations towards the game
A player should:
1. Make every effort to develop their own
sporting abilities, in terms of skill, technique,
tactics and stamina.
2. Give maximum effort and strive for the best
possible performance during a game, even if
his team is in a position where the desired result has already been achieved.
3. Set a positive example for others, particularly
young players and supporters.
4. Avoid all forms of gamesmanship, and
time-wasting.
5. Always have regard to the best interests of
the game, including where publicly
expressing an opinion on the game and any
particular aspect of it, including others
involved in the game.
6. Not use inappropriate language
Obligations towards one's own team
A player should:
1. Make every effort consistent with Fair Play
and the Laws of the Came to help his own
team win.
Resist any influence, which might, or might be
seen to, bring into question his commitment
to the team winning.
Respect for the Laws of the Game and
competition rules
A player should:
1. Know and abide by the Laws, rules and spirit
of the game, and the competition rules.
2. Accept success and failure, victory and
defeat, equally.
3. Resist any temptation to take banned
substances or use banned techniques.
Respect towards Opponents
A player should:
1. Treat opponents with due respect at all times, irrespective of the
result of the game.
2. Safeguard the physical fitness of opponents, avoid violence and rough
play, and help injured opponents.
Respect towards the Match Officials
A player should:
Accept the decision of the Match Official
without protest.
Avoid words or actions, which may mislead a
Match Official.
Show due respect towards Match Officials.
Respect towards Team Officials
A player should;
1. Abide by the instructions of their Coach and Team Officials, provided
they do not
contradict the spirit of this Code.
2. Show due respect towards the Team Officials of the opposition;
Obligations towards the Supporters
A player should:
1. Show due respect to the interests of
supporters.
Simply put Codes of Conduct for Players (especially younger Players)
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Learn and observe the laws of the game
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Beat opponents by skill – not unfair means
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Never argue and always show due respect to officials
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Don’t appeal for decisions
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Retreat the required distance automatically
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Give the ball to opponents for throw-ins, free kicks etc.
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Never make racial, sexist or inappropriate comments
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If an opponent gives you the ball, wait for him/her to return to the
pitch
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Keep your self-control – Do not retaliate
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Don’t over react when your team scores
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Accept victory modestly – Defeat graciously
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Don’t over react to injury
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Acknowledge good play
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Encourage team-mates
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Play for the fun or else it is not worth playing
Code of Conduct for
Team Officials
This Code applies to all team / club officials
(although some items may not apply to all
officials).
Obligations towards the Game
The team official should:
1. Set a positive example for others, particularly
young players and supporters.
2. Promote and develop his-own team having
regard to the interest of the Players,
Supporters and reputation of the national
game.
3. Share knowledge and experience when
invited to do so, taking into account the
interest of the body that has requested this
rather than personal interests.
4. Avoid all forms of gamesmanship.
5. Show due respect to Match Officials and
others involved in the game.
6. Always have regard to the best interests of
the game, including where publicly
expressing an opinion of the game and any
particular aspect of it, including others
involved in the game.
7. Not use or tolerate inappropriate language.
Obligations towards the Team
The team official should:
1. Make every effort to develop the sporting,
technical and tactical levels of the club/team,
and to obtain the best results by the team,
using all permitted means.
2. Give priority to the interests of the team over
individual interests.
3. Resist all illegal, or unsporting influences,
including banned substances and techniques.
4. Promote ethical principles.
5. Show due respect to the interests of players, coaches and other
officials, at their own club/team and others.
Obligations towards the Supporters
The team official should:
1.Show due respect to the interests of
supporters.
Respect towards the Match Officials
A team official should:
1. Accept the decisions of the Match Official
without protest.
2. Avoid words or actions, which may mislead a
Match Official.
3. Show due respect towards Match Officials
Code of Conduct for
Match Officials
Obligations towards the game
The referee should:
1. Make every effort to prepare fully for a match, both physically and
mentally. On a physical level, a referee must be able to keep up with
the speed of the modern game, and be alert and close enough to take
correct decisions from creditable locations on the field of play.
2. Not be afraid to take decisions. A referee should be fair and firm
and must resist any possible influence from protests on the part of
players, team officials or spectators.
3. Show respect towards players and team officials.
4. Be honest and completely impartial at all times, irrespective of the
teams, players or team officials involved in the match.
5. Decline to be appointed to a match if not completely physically or
mentally fit to referee that match (because of illness, injury, or for
family or other reasons).
6. Inform The Football Association and/or County Association and/or
league or competition directly responsible if unable to referee a team
or teams for any reason.
7. Refrain from requesting hospitality of any kind, or accept any
hospitality offered and considered to be excessive.
8. Always have regard to the best interests of the game, including where
publicly expressing an opinion on the game or any particular aspect of
it, including others involved in the game.
9. Will not tolerate inappropriate language from players and/or
officials.
Obligations towards the Players
1. A referee should have regard to protecting the players.
2.A referee should show due respect when speaking with the players, even
in the event of infringements.
3.In reports, a referee should set out the true facts and not attempt to
justify any decisions.
Obligations towards fellow Referees, Assistant Referees, Fourth
Officials and Substitute Referees
1. A referee should refrain from publicly expressing any criticism of
fellow referees, assistant referees or other match officials.
2. A referee should assist with the development of less experienced
referees and assistant referees.
3. An assistant referee should give his total support to the referee,
but without undue interference or insistence.
Code of Conduct for
Parents/Carers/Spectators
A parent's/carers’/spectator's expectations andattitudes have a significant bearing on a child's
attitude towards:
• Other players
• Officials
• Managers
• Spectators.
This club will ensure that parents/carers/spectators within your club
are always positive and encouraging towards all of the children-not just
their own - and will encourage parents/carers/spectators to:
• Applaud the opposition as well as their
own team
• Avoid coaching the child during the game
• Not to shout and scream
• Respect the referee's decision
• Give attention to each of the children
involved in football not just the most talented
• Give encouragement to everyone to
participate in football.
The club will ensure that parents/carers/spectators agree and adhere
to the Code of Conduct and Child Protection Policy.
Simply put Codes of Conduct for Parents/Carers/Spectators
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Show that you appreciate good football by applauding and cheering loudly
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Give a warm and generous welcome to both teams
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Cheer and encourage your team
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Do not coach from the sidelines
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Never criticise young players
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Always think of other spectators
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Never criticise or argue with officials
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Never boo anyone including officials
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Never make racial, sexist or inappropriate comments
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Don’t expect too much from young players
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Remember – All young players of whatever ability do their best and try
their hardest and don’t make mistakes on purpose
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recognise skill, enthusiasm and sporting behaviour. Give attention
to each child involved not just the most talented
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Win, lose or draw appreciate the efforts of both teams and officials
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Although you are not playing, remember that you should act in a sporting
manner, as your football club will be judged by your behaviour
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Remember – The club can be fined for unsociable behaviour of players and
their spectators
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Set a good example to the younger player at all times
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If you can’t abide by this Code of Conduct and set high standards, then,
please don’t come and watch!
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Child Protection Policy
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1 Mulbarton Wanderers & Belles Football Club acknowledges its
responsibility to safeguard the welfare of every child and young person
who has been entrusted to its care and is committed to working to
provide a safe environment for all members. A child or young person is
anyone under the age of 18 engaged in any club football activity. We
subscribe to The Football Association's child protection and best
practice policy and procedures and endorse and adopt the policy
statement contained in that document.
2 The key principles of The FA Child Protection Policy are that:
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The child's welfare is, and must always be, the paramount
consideration
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All children and young people have a right to be protected from
abuse regardless of their age, gender, disability, culture,
language, racial origin, religious beliefs or sexual orientation
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All suspicions and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously
and responded to swiftly and appropriately
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Working in partnership with other organisations, children and
young people and their parents or carers is essential. We
acknowledge that every child or young person who plays or
participates in football should be able to take part in an enjoyable
and safe environment and be protected from poor practice and abuse.
Mulbarton Wanderers & Belles Football Club recognises that this is
the responsibility of every adult involved in our club.
3 Mulbarton Wanderers & Belles Football Club has a role to
play in. safeguarding the welfare of all children and young people by
Protecting them from physical, sexual or emotional harm and from neglect
or bullying. It is noted and accepted that The Football Association's
child protection regulation (see The FA Handbook) applies to everyone in
football whether in a paid or voluntary capacity. This includes those
who are a volunteer, match official, helper on club tours, football
coach, club official or medical staff.
4 We endorse and adopt The FA's Child Protection and Best Practice
Guidelines for Recruiting Volunteers and will:
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Develop a role profile
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Request identification documents
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As a minimum meet and chat with the applicant(s) and where
possible conduct interviews before appointing
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Request and follow up with two references before appointing
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Require an FA CRB Unit Enhanced Disclosure where appropriate in
line with FA guidelines. All current Mulbarton Wanderers & Belles
Football Club members with direct access to children and young
people will be required to complete a CRB Enhanced Disclosure via
The FA CRB Unit. If there are concerns regarding the appropriateness
of an individual who is already involved or who has approached us to
become part of Mulbarton Wanderers & Belles Football Club, guidance
will be sought from The Football Association. It is noted and
accepted that The FA will consider the relevance and significance of
the information obtained via The FACRB Unit Enhanced CRB Disclosure
and that all decisions will be made in the best interests of
children and young people. It is accepted that The FA aims to
prevent people with a history of relevant and significant offending
from having contact with children or young people and the
opportunity to influence policies or practice with children or young
people. This is to prevent direct sexual or physical harm to
children and to minimise the risk of 'grooming' within football.
5 Mulbarton Wanderers & Belles Football Club supports The FA's
'whistle blowing' policy. Any adult or young person with concerns about
a colleague can 'whistle blow' by contacting The FA Child Protection
Manager on 0207 745 4771, by writing to The FA Case Manager at The
Football Association, 25 Soho Square, London W1D 4FA or by going direct
to the police, social services or the NSPCC. Mulbarton Wanderers &
Belles Football Club encourages everyone to know about it and utilise it
if necessary.
6 Mulbarton Wanderers & Belles Football Club has appointed a Club
Child Protection Officer (CPO) in line with The FA's role profile and
required completion of the child protection and best practice workshop.
The post holder will be involved with designated person's training
provided by The FA. The CPO is the first point of contact for all club
members and parents or guardians regarding concerns for the welfare of
any child or young person. They will liase directly with the CFA CPO and
will be familiar with the procedures for referring any concerns. They
will also play a proactive role in increasing an awareness of poor
practice and abuse amongst club members. If any member, parent, guardian
or concerned persons are worried about the welfare of any young person
connected with the club they should make contact with Mulbarton
Wanderers & Belles Football Club’s CPO. Cathy Ladbrooke, 8 Birkbeck Way
Thorpe Norwich NR7 0XZ 01603 449640 or 07890 312070
7 We acknowledge and endorse The FA's identification of bullying as
a category of abuse. Bullying of any kind is not acceptable at our club.
If bullying does occur, all players, parents or guardians should be able
to tell and know that incidents will be dealt with promptly. Incidents
need to be reported to the Club CPO, a member of the committee or, in
cases of serious bullying contact the CFA CPO.
8 Mulbarton Wanderers & Belles Football Club has implemented Codes
of conduct for players, parents or spectators, officials and coaches. In
order to validate these codes of conduct the club has clear sanctions to
deal with any misconduct at club level and acknowledges the possibility
of potential sanctions, which may be implemented by leagues or the CFA
in more serious circumstances. All prospective members will be informed
of these codes.
9 Further advice on child protection matters can be obtained from:
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The County Football Association's Child Protection Officer,
whose details can be found in the County Handbook • The Football
Association/NSPCC Child Protection
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24-Hour Helpline 0808 800 5000
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The FA child protection team on 0207 745 4649.
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Equality Policy
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As the governing body of the game, The Football
Association is responsible for setting standards
and values to apply throughout the game at every
level. Football belongs to, and should be enjoyed
by, anyone who wants to participate in it.
The FA's commitment is to eliminate
discrimination whether by reason of gender,
sexual orientation, marital status, race, nationality,
ethnic origin, colour, religion or belief, ability or
disability.
The FA is also committed to promoting equality
by treating people fairly and with respect, by
recognising that inequalities may exist, by taking
steps to address them and by providing access
and opportunities for all members of the
community.
The following policy should be at the heart of
your club's activities.
Equality Policy for Clubs
The aim of this policy is to ensure that everyone is
treated fairly and with respect and that Mulbarton Wanderers & Belles
Football Club is equally
accessible to them all.
Mulbarton Wanderers & Belles Football Club is responsible for
setting standards and values to apply throughout the club at every
level. Football belongs to and should be enjoyed by, anyone who wants to
participate in it.
Our commitment is to confront and eliminate discrimination whether
by reason of gender,
sexual orientation, marital status, race, nationality,
ethnic origin, colour, religion or belief, ability or
disability and to encourage equal opportunities.
This policy is fully supported by the Club Officers
who are responsible for the implementation of
this policy.
Mulbarton Wanderers & Belles Football Club, in all its activities
will not discriminate, or in any way treat anyone less favourably, on
grounds of gender, sexual orientation, marital status, race,
nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or belief, ability o
disability. It means that Mulbarton Wanderers & Belles Football Club
will ensure that it treats people fairly and with respect and that it
will provide access and opportunities for all members of the community
to take part in, and enjoy, its activities.
Mulbarton Wanderers & Belles Football Club will not tolerate
harassment, bullying, abuse or
victimisation of an individual, which for the
purposes of this policy and the actions and
sanction applicable is regarded as discrimination.
This includes sexual or racially based harassment
or other discriminatory behaviour, whether
physical or verbal. Mulbarton Wanderers & Belles Football Club will work
to ensure that such behaviour is met with appropriate action in whatever
context it occurs.
Mulbarton Wanderers & Belles Football Club is committed to taking
positive action where
inequalities exist, and to the development of a
programme of ongoing training and awareness -
raising events and activities in order to promote
the eradication of discrimination and promote
equality in football.
Mulbarton Wanderers & Belles Football Club is committed to a policy
of equal treatment of all members and requires all members to abide and
adhere to these policies and the requirements of the relevant equalities
legislation - Race Relations Act 1976, Sex Discrimination Act 1975 and
Disability Discrimination Act 1995 as well as any
amendments to these acts and any new
legislation.
Mulbarton Wanderers & Belles Football Club commits itself to the
immediate investigation of any claims, when it is brought to its
attention, of
discrimination on the above grounds and where
such is found to be the case, a requirement that
the practice stop and sanctions imposed as
appropriate.
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Club Complaints Procedure Policy
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In the event that any member feels that he or she has suffered
discrimination in any way or that the Club Policies, Rules or Code of
Conduct have been broken they should follow the procedures below:
1. They should report the matter to the Club Secretary or another
member of the Committee. Your report should include:
(i) Details of what, when, and where the occurrence took place
(ii) Any witness statement and names
(iii) Names of any others who have been treated in a similar way
(iv) Details of any former complaints made about the incident,
date, when and to whom made
(v) A preference for a solution to the incident.
2. The Club's Management Committee will sit for any hearings that
are requested.
3. The Club's Management Committee will have the power to:
(i) Warn as to future conduct
(ii) Suspend from membership
(iii) Remove from membership any person found to have broken the
Club's Policies or Codes of Conduct.
If the complaint is with regard to the Club’s Management Committee
the member has the right to report the discrimination direct to the
Norfolk County Football Association.
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Player Recruitment Policy
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Identifying a Club’s Needs
It is essential to identify a club’s recruitment needs in order to
select the appropriate group to target. Factors, which may affect target
group selection in order to develop the club, i.e. junior, youth or
senior players are as follows:
• Demand from local community
• Existing playing opportunities (e.g. Local Authority / Football in the
Community schemes / other local Clubs)
• Existing league opportunities available (e.g. Mini-Soccer, Girls /
Boys League, County League etc)
• Local Schools, Colleges or Universities who are able to provide new
players.
If a group is targeted in order to attract new members, it is
important that the appropriate structure and support of the whole club
is in place to cater for the needs of the players and that there should
be a local opportunity where that new club can play games. It is also
important to remember that every player joining the club will do so for
very different reasons.
Benefits of targeting specific groups
Senior Players
(a) Are needed to strengthen and develop existing senior and reserve
sides.
(b) Assist with the general running of the club, especially coaching
younger players and being role models.
(c) Generate income through increased membership.
(d) Bring organisational skills to the club through their existing
job.
(e) Raise people from the playing side as role models to Junior
Youth Players, reflecting exit route for Junior Players.
Junior Youth Players
(a) Are the future of the sport and of your club.
(b) Provide future Players, Coaches, Officials ans Administrators
for all teams.
(c) Help raise the profile of the club in the local community.
(d) Provide an opportunity to identify parents who may have
footballing or organisational skills; they may wish to assist with the
administration or organisation of the club.
(e) Assist in the development of existing Coaches and can become
potential Coached themselves.
(f) Generate income by increased membership and enhance the
likelihood of grant aid (see Funding Handbook)
(g) Provide better access to local authority and school facilities
and equipment.
(h) Are offered the chance to participate in meaningful activities,
which support a young person’s health and social skills development.
Methods of Recruitment
There are numerous methods of attracting
players to clubs. Activities to recruit new players
can be organised in partnership with Local
Authority, Sports Development Officers, Football
in the Community Officers, County Schools'
Associations, County Football Association,
Football Development Officers.
Recruiting in partnership with existing football
providers will ensure your club gains maximum
promotion opportunities and that every potential
player is aware that you are developing a new team.
Player Recruitment (Juniors)
• Come and Try It, Introductory Coaching
Sessions
• Taster Days
• Kick Start Coaching Schemes (Active Sports)
• Coaching Courses
• Top Sport Community Football Clubs
• Mini-Soccer Centres
• Coaching Weeks/Holiday Courses
• Festivals
• Club Open Day/Parents Meeting
• Taster Sessions in Schools
• Posters/Flyers/Adverts
• Press Releases
• Local Business/Sports Centre competition
• Youth Games
• Tournament
• Club Information Leaflet
(See FA Resources Leaflet)
• Recreational Games
• Veterans
It is important to keep records of players once they have been
recruited to the club in case of emergencies etc.
It is also essential that all newly
recruited players are issued with your club's
Code of Conduct
Insurance
All football clubs are urged to obtain adequate
insurance cover for their players in case of injury
or accident whilst playing or travelling to matches.
This may even be mandatory for some
competitions or County Football Associations.
Clubs must also protect themselves by obtaining
suitable public liability insurance and coaches'
personal insurance. For further information please
contact your County Football Association.
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Refereeing Recruitment
and Development Policy
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There are three main advantages for clubs to develop their own
referees:
1. If a referee isn’t appointed to your game you have someone within
the club with knowledge and experience who can officiate.
2. If a referee is appointed to your game you have an assistant who
is qualified as a referee.
3. You have someone available to assist in educating the club
members and players with regard to the Laws of the Game, thus enhancing
their enjoyment of football.
How to become a referee
All County Football Associations regularly organise referee-training
courses.
The course, which lasts for 12 hours usually over a six-week period,
is complete once the potential referee has successfully undertaken an
exam.
The new referee should then register with their local County
Football Association.
What happens next?
On passing your exam, you become a Level 7 referee. Under 16s are
registered as a Level 8 referee and can only officiate in youth
football.
Many County Associations organise a mentoring scheme to support
their newly qualified referees.
You can referee as often as you wish.
For those who take to refereeing and enjoy the unique and important
role referees play in football, there is a career pathway, which could
one day lead to games in semi-professional and professional football.
Promotion through the levels will be based on a referee’s
performance, assessments, attendance at In-Service training events,
successful completion from time to time of exams on the Laws of the Game
and from Level 4 onwards successful completion of a promotion interview.
Refereeing onwards and upwards
Level 8 – Youth Referee
Level 7 – Junior County Referee
Level 6 – County Referee
Level 5 – Senior County Referee
Level 4 – Supply League Referee
Level 3 – Contributory League Referee
Level 2 – Panel League Referee
Level 1 – Nation & International List of Referees
Once you have got the refereeing bug – the sky’s the limit!
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Coach Recruitment
and Development Policy
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Qualified Coaches
It is imperative for the development of the game that all coaches at
all levels within clubs hold a recognised FA qualification or are
working towards becoming qualified.
Recruitment of suitable Coaches
Research has consistently shown that the major factors, which
motivate individuals to become involved in coaching, are:
• A desire to continue their involvement in sport after playing and
continue their competitive needs.
• A desire to help young people to develop sport, particularly their
own children.
• A desire to put something back into sport.
When recruiting new coaches it is always useful to contact your
County Football Association Football Development Officers or Local
Authority Sport Development officer to seek advice. Remember when
recruiting to follow the advice from the Child Protection and Best
Practice Workshop and from the section in this manual on recruitment.
Finding new coaches is not an easy task, however, it is a good idea
to target the following group of individuals:
• Ex-players or players who are coming to the end of their playing
career.
• Students, particularly those studying Physical Education or Sports
Degrees, A-Level Physical Education, G.N.V.Q Leisure and Tourism,
C.S.L.A students, Junior Football Organisers and Step Into Sport.
• Parents/Carers. (this could be part of the Soccer Parent
Sessions).
• Young players to work towards taking a qualification, working
alongside more experienced coaches.
• Teachers, particularly those who have an interest in football.
Advertising within the local community
The Football Association recommends for the safety and welfare of
coaches and players, the following measures are adopted when recruiting
coaches:
• Clubs should follow The FA Best Practice and Procedures.
• Coaches should be required to complete an application form
identifying experience, qualifications and references. (see Volunteer
Application Form)
• Coaches should be required to be interviewed.
• Coaches should be required to sign up and deliver the club’s Code
of Conduct. (See Club’s Code of Conduct for Coaches)
• Coaches should be required to work in pairs wherever possible.
Coach Development
Helping coaches to become qualified and develop is a key factor in
the development of the Club.
It is recommended that all coaches join the
Football Association Coaches Association (FACA)and their local county coaches-association-to keep
coaches up to date. FACA provides the following services and support to
coaches;Continued
Professional Development, regular coaches
magazine (Insight), insurance cover and access to
resources.
sportscoachUK also provide an extensive range
of supporting courses, such as, 'Working with
Children,' 'Fitness and Training' and many
others
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Volunteer Recruitment Policy
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The first stage of any recruitment process
involves planning. Club officials should draw
up a role profile, which highlights the main
areas of an identified voluntary role. They
should also decide upon the skills and
experience that an individual would need to
fulfil the requirements of the role and draw
up a person specification. The club recruitment
process must be developed in such a way that
they treat every applicant in a fair and
consistent manner.
Advertising
In order to attract new volunteers it maybe
necessary to advertise outside the club itself,
for example, on a sports hall notice board, a local
school, shop/community hall or newspaper.
The advertisement should reflect the club's
Child Protection Policy and it should contain
the skills and experience required and the
duties to be undertaken. However, it should
not discriminate in terms of age, race, gender
or disability.
Application Form
Clubs should use application forms to collect
information on each applicant. The Volunteer
Application Form can be adopted for club use.
Each applicant's information is then collected
in a consistent way.
More than one official should look at the
application forms to ensure that a fair and
equitable scrutiny is completed. It's very
important that clubs ask for identification documents to confirm the
identity of the
applicant, for example, a passport or
driving licence.
Meeting/Interview
It is highly recommended that club officials
meet with all applicants prior to any
recruitment decisions being made. More than
one official should be present. The meeting/
interview will enable the club to explore
further the information provided in the
application form. The questions to be asked
should be prepared in advance and should
provide the applicant with the opportunity to
recount previous experiences and give
examples of how they have or would
handle situations.
Whilst it is important to elicit information
regarding an applicant's technical capabilities it
is also necessary to explore his or her attitudes
and commitment to child welfare. Listed below
are examples of questions that could be used
to discover this information:
• Tell us about any previous experience you
have working with children or young people.
• Give a child related scenario and ask theapplicants what they would do. For
example, 'It is a winter evening and the
training session has finished. A parent has
not arrived to pick up their child. What
would you do?' The applicant would be
expected to say that they would stay
with the child and contact the parents to
find out where they were.
• Is there anything we should know that
could affect your suitability to work with
children or young people?
References
At least two references should be requested from
individuals who are not related to the applicant.
One reference should be associated with the
applicant's place of work and if possible one that
demonstrates the individual has been involved in
sport, particularly children's football previously.
References should be followed up prior to any
offer of appointment being made. If the
references raise any concerns you are advised to contact The FA Child
Protection department for advice and guidance (see example of Volunteer
Reference Form).
Criminal Record Bureau (CRB) Disclosures
CRB checks are another tool in the recruitment
procedure. A CRB Enhanced Disclosure tells The FA about a person's
recorded offences. It can indicate that a person is not a suitable
person to work with children, for example if they have a history of
sexual offending. It may also tell The FA that further investigations
are required, for example if the person has a history of drug dealing or
racist offending.
Volunteers and others in football should be
assured that The FA would take into account the Rehabilitant of
Offenders Act and only consider offences, which are relevant to the
care, supervision and training of children.
The FA is not allowed to tell the club or County
FA about the actual offending and so applicants
can be assured of confidentiality. The FA will
however tell the club and County FA whether or
not the person is considered suitable to work
with children.
Applications for CRB checks should be dealt
with by the club's designated Child
Protection Officer. If an applicant claims to have an FA CRB Unit
Enhanced Disclosure the club should seek advice from The FA CRB Unit or
the Goal website on how to proceed.
Further information can be found by visiting
www.TheFA.com/Goal
Recruitment Decisions
Clubs should consider all the information they
receive via the application form, confirmation of
identity, the outcome of the take up of
references and the FA CRB Unit Enhanced
Disclosure. This information should then be
considered alongside the outcome of the
meeting/interview to make an informed decision
as to whether or not to accept the applicant
into their club.
Post Recruitment
It is important that once a new volunteer has
been recruited follow up action is taken, for
example:
• Any qualifications should be substantiated,
for example, requesting photocopies of
coaching certificates
• That new volunteers are made aware and
sign up to the club's child protection
policy and procedures, best practice
guidelines and any codes of conduct
• That any training needs are established and an actioned statement
of the roles and
responsibilities of the new volunteer is
prepared
• Initially, a period of supervision/observation or mentoring could
be introduced to
support the new volunteer.
Summary
Child protection is about putting in place the
best possible practices and procedures; this
will protect not only the child but also you,
the adult, in football. If you have any
comments on this guideline or require any
further support or guidance relating to children
and young people, please contact The FA
Equality and Child Protection Department.
Guidelines issued by The FA Equality and Child
Protection Department. Revised January 2006.
For further information or advice please contact:
The FA Equality and Child Protection
Department
The Football Association
25 Soho Square
London W1D 4FA
Telephone: 0800 085 0506
goal@TheFA.com
www.TheFA.com/Goal
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Football Workforce Development
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Developing an effective, skilled and supported workforce within the
Club is one of the most important elements to ensure the Club becomes
sustainable and successful.
Providing volunteers with clearly defined roles and responsibilities
that are recognised, valued and rewarded by the Club and the wider
community is key to maintaining their involvement and keeping them
motivated.
Training and developing the workforce is a key role of the Club and
the County FA have a number of resources and workshops that can be
organised to support club volunteers. These include:
• Developing the Club
• Managing the Club finances
• Creating club links
• Developing and managing volunteers
• Developing funding opportunities
• Running a club
• Running a youth team
• Developing young leaders (Step into Sport)
• Developing Club facilities
• Marketing the Club
Contact Norfolk County FA Football Development Team to access these
workshops.
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Roles and Responsibilities
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Chairperson
• Provide leadership and direction for the club
• Oversee the work of the Club Committee
• Chair meetings of the club
• Advocate of the football club for the local community.
Secretary
• Official contact between club and County FA and other clubs
• Ensure club affiliation and league membership
• Ensure effective correspondence andcommunication
• Provide minutes of meetings for official club records
• Match day duties to support teams and officials.
Treasurer
• Manage and administer finances of the club
• Create annual income and expenditure sheets and balance sheets
• Create and maintain a cash book for at least two years
• Ensure all payments and fines are paid on time and recorded
• Support all fundraising and sponsorship opportunities.
Volunteer Co-ordinator
• Recruiting new volunteers
• Ensuring volunteers are inducted to the club
• Provide volunteers with a brief of their role
• Ensure there is a training programme for volunteers
• Ensure volunteers are recognised and rewarded.
Schools' Liaison Officer
• To establish links with local schools
• Meeting the school at least twice a year
• Ensuring schools receive information of club activities
• Develop opportunities for young leaders and players.
Teams Manager
• Recruiting new coaches
• Provide coaches with a training / support programme
• Co-ordinate the coaching programme throughout the club
• Establish and/or support a coach mentoring programme
• Ensure the coaches are recognised and rewarded.
Referee Co-ordinator
• Recruitment and support for new referees
• Liaison with referees on match days
• Ensure referees are recognised and supported
• Establish and/or support a referee-mentoring programme.
Press Release Guidelines
Many people in the football industry have a poor view of the media -
often because negative
football stories achieve larger headlines - but, due to the huge public
interest in the game, their power in communicating messages to a wide
audience is unrivalled.
Whilst it often appears that the media is only interested in these
negative stories, tremendous
opportunities exist to promote your activities and the role of football
generally.
Developing a Media Strategy
Effective communication with the Media should ideally be managed
through a strategy, which
sets out what messages you want to communicate, and how you go about
doing it.
Develop the message you want to get over
• What does your Association/ Club do? Provide a 'profile'.
Outlining your full range
of activities is a useful tool to have, to help external organisations
gain an understanding
of the scope of your work
• Information about regular activities: competitions, coaching
courses, refereeing
• New developments: grants, local initiatives and sponsorship deals.
Who communicates?
• Identify a Press Officer
• Encourage your associations, leagues and affiliated organisations
to do the same
• Establish internal lines of communication to ensure the relevant
information gets to the
press officer for dissemination.
Get to know who your local media
contacts are
• When and where they appear
• What audience they cover
• Identify sections or programmes that can be planned in advance
• Be aware there are other issues which will also need to be
addressed at short notice
• Regular: fixtures/results for competition.
How to communicate
• Press releases
• Bulletins and newsletters
• Posters, leaflets, websites etc
• Personal contacts.
Effective communication tools
• Press releases
• Telephone interviews
• Face to face interviews
• Photocall opportunities
• Local radio
• Regional television
• Open days/special events
• Sponsorship
• Newsletters and bulletins
• Developing long-term relationships with the media.
Producing a good press release
• The date & good headline with the correct layout
• The key message should appear in the first paragraph: -Who? -What?
-Where? -When?
• Check spelling and grammar
• Note to editors, contact name and telephone number
• If you are the nominated spokesperson, make sure YOU are available.
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Goalpost Safety Guidelines
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The Football Association, along with the Department for Culture, Media
and Sport, the Health and
Safety Executive and the British Standards Institute, would like to draw
your attention to the
following guidelines for the safe use of goalposts.
Too many serious injuries and fatalities have occurred in recent
years as a result of unsafe or
incorrect use of goalposts. Safety is always of paramount importance and
everyone in football
must play their part to prevent similar incidents occurring in the
future.
1. For safety reasons goalposts of any size (including those which
are portable and not installed permanently at a pitch or practice field)
must always be anchored securely to the ground:
• Portable goalposts must be secured as per the manufacturer's
instructions
• Under no circumstances should children or adults be allowed to
climbon, swing or play with the structure of the goalposts
• Particular attention is drawn to the fact that if not properly
assembled and secured, portable goalposts may overturn
• Regular inspections of goalposts must be carried out to check that
they are properly maintained.
2. Before using assembled goalposts, adults should;
• Ensure each goal is anchored securely in place
• Exert a significant downward force on the crossbar
• Exert a significant backward force on both upright posts
• Exert a significant forward force on both upright posts.
This must be repeated until it is established that the structure is
secure. If not, alternative goals / pitches must be used.
3. Portable goalposts should not be left in place after use. They
should be dismantled and
removed to a place of secure storage.
4. The use of metal cup hooks on goals will be banned from the
commencement of season
2007/08 and match officials will be instructed not to commence
matches where such net
fixings are evident for safety reasons. Nets should only be secured by
plastic hooks or tape and not by metal cup hooks. Any metal cup hooks
should be removed and replaced. New goalposts should not be purchased if
they include metal cup hooks.
5. Goalposts which are "home made" or which have been altered from
their original size or construction should not be used. These have been
the cause of a number of deaths and injuries.
6. There is no BS/CEN standard for wooden goals and it is unlikely
that wooden goals will
pass a load or stability test. The FA recommends that wooden goals
should be replaced when
necessary with compliant metal, aluminium or plastic goalposts. All
wooden goals previously
tested by independent consultants have failed strength and stability
tests.
For reference, you should note that The FA and BSI, in conjunction
with the industry, have developed two standards for goalposts - BSEN 748
(1998) and BS 8462 (2005). It is strongly
recommended that you ensure that all goals purchased comply with the
relevant standard.
A Code of Practice BS 8461 has also been completed and copies of all of
these three standards
are available from the British Standards Institute.
Funding for replacement goals is available via the Football
Foundation and eligibility criteria
and further details can be obtained on their web site
www.footballfoundation.org.uk
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Dealing with an Incident / Accident
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1. Stay calm but act swiftly and observe the situation. Is there danger
of further injuries?
2. Listen to what the injured person is saying
3. Alert the first-aider who should takeappropriate action for minor
injuries
4. In the event of an injury regarding specialist treatment, call
the emergency services
5. Deal with the rest of the group and ensure that they are
adequately supervised
6. Do not move someone with major injuries. Wait for the emergency
medics
7. Contact the injured person's parent/guardian
8. Complete an accident report form (see"Accident/Incident Report
Form")
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Photograph and Video Policy
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There has been much talk about whether it's safe to take pictures of
under 18s playing sport.
The FA would like to assure parents, carers, coaches, spectators,
players and local media that
we encourage the taking of appropriate, images of children in football.
Potential risks
The FA has developed this guidance to help avoid the following:
• The inappropriate use, adaptation or copying of images for use on
child abuse websites on
the internet (often referred to as pornography sites);
• The identification of children when a photograph is accompanied
by significant personal information that will assist a third party in
identifying the child. This can lead, and has led, to children being
'groomed'; and
• The identification and locating of children in inappropriate
circumstances which include:
(i) where a child has been removed from his/her family for their own
safety;
(ii) where restrictions on contact with one parent following a
parental separation exist e.g. in domestic violence cases;
(iii) in situations where a child may be a witness in criminal
proceedings or subject to a court order;
or
(iv) other child protection concerns.
The majority of images taken are appropriate and taken in good
faith. If we take the following
simple measures we can help to ensure the safety of children in
football.
Common sense considerations to ensure everyone's safety:
Do.
1. Share The FA's guidance on taking images with all parents, carers
and members when they join the club;
2. Ensure the club has parental consent to use a player's image if
it is to be used in the public domain e.g. club website or
newspaper article. This is essential in relation to point 3 below;
3. Ensure that any child in your club who is under care proceedings,
is protected by ensuring that their image is not placed in the public
domain. This can be done by using an annual consent form, so that
parents/carers can identify if this applies to children in their care;
4. Focus on the activity rather than the individual and record
images in groups of at least four;
5. Ensure all those featured are appropriately dressed (a minimum of
vest or shirt and shorts);
6. Aim to take pictures which represent the broad range of
youngsters participating safely in football e.g. boys and girls,
disabled people, ethnic minority communities; and
7. Report any instances of inappropriate images in football to The
FA Case Manager or the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) contact details
can be found on the following page.
Don’t
1. Publish photographs with the full name(s) of the
individual(s) featured, unless you have written consent to do so and you
have informed the parents as to how the image will be used;
2. Use player profiles with pictures, and detailed personal
information on websites;
3. Use an image for something other than that for which it was
initially agreed, e.g. published in local press when initially produced
for a clubhouse commemorative picture; and
4. Allow images to be recorded in changing rooms, showers or toilets
- this includes the use of mobile phones that record images.
Remember
• It's not an offence to take appropriate photographs in a public
place even if asked not to do so;
• No one has the right to decide who can and cannot take images on
public land;
• If you have serious concerns about a possible child protection
issue relating to the recording of images then call the police. This
action should only be taken where you believe that someone may be acting
unlawfully or putting a child at risk;
• The land or facility owner can decide whether or not photography
and/or videoing of football activities will be permitted when carried
out on private land. However you need to make this known before allowing
individuals access to the private property. If they do not comply then
you may request that they leave; and
• Try not to use images that include individuals wearing jewellery
(as wearing jewellery whilst
playing is contrary to the Laws of the Game as well as being a health
and safety issue).
• That all people (including relations) taking photographs or
recording footage at a football event should register with the event
organiser.
Commissioning Professional Photographers and the Local Media
If you are commissioning professional photographers or inviting the
press to cover a football activity ensure you and they are clear about
each other's expectations. Remember the
key is to plan ahead and communicate early on.
• Provide a clear brief about what is considered appropriate in
terms of content and behaviour;
• Inform them of your club's commitment to safeguarding children and
young people and establish who will hold the recorded images and what
they intend to do with them, e.g. place on a website for sale,
distribute thumb nails to the club to co-ordinate sales;
• Inform participants and parents or carers prior to the event that
a professional photographer will be in attendance and ensure you have
established that no under 18s will be compromised due to child
protection concerns if their image is taken – remember this can be done
by using the annual consent form at the start of the season.
• Issue the professional photographer with identification, which
must be worn at all times;
To report potentially unlawful materials on the Internet please
contact:
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