Appointing Referees in Junior Football

The intentions of most people who work with children in football are good. However, as part of football’s commitment to provide safe and enjoyable environments, sound recruitment and selection procedures are essential.

When clubs or leagues recruit new members, all reasonable steps must be taken to ensure unsuitable people are prevented from working with children.

As part of The FA’s safeguarding children strategy, The FA requires those working in eligible roles with children and young people to pass a DBS check. This is in line with legislation and government guidance and is standard practice. 

This is a reminder to all clubs and leagues to only appoint Referees who are DBS checked for any Under 18 fixtures in grassroots football, where possible, to keep our game as safe as possible.