WE CAN PROVIDE AN UPDATE FOR GRASSROOTS FOOTBALL AS COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS EASE

On Monday 19 July, England moved to Step 4 of its roadmap in easing COVID-19 restrictions.

This meant that almost all legal restrictions of social contact were removed. However, the Government is encouraging people to act with caution. Our guidance has therefore been updated to reflect this.

This updated guidance which covers Steps 3-6 of the National League System (NLS), Tiers 3-6 of the Women’s Football Pyramid and grassroots football (including Regional NLS Feeder Leagues), came into effect on Monday 19 July. You can read the Government guidance here.

The full guidance documents can be downloaded below and should be referred to for further details. The summary key points are:

1. On field adaptions for playing football are no longer required.
2. No limits of how many people can meet.
3. One metre plus rule removed.
4. The definition of close contact remains the same, however the rules on self-isolation will be changing from 16 August.
5. Face coverings no longer required by law, but recommended in crowded indoor settings and may be mandated by some clubs or facility providers.
6. Changing rooms can be used, however participants should use their own judgement and minimise use where possible to avoid close contact in a crowded area for a prolonged time.
7. No capacity limits for spectators but good practice is encouraged.
8. Hospitality is permitted without restrictions.
9. NHS Test and Trace QR codes not required by law but encouraged.
10. Free NHS lateral flow testing is available to clubs and we encourage clubs to take this up.
11. No domestic travel restrictions. Participants should continue to follow Government advice on international travel for any fixtures/ tournaments.

This guidance document applies to all youth and adult football and Futsal, including all formats of the game, both indoors and outdoors.

We would like to thank you once again for playing your part in helping to get our game going again. By observing Government guidance and the football-specific protocols, we can look forward to ensuring the transition back to enjoying football is as smooth and safe as possible.

To view a full set of the latest FA guidance documents, please click the links below.

FA 11-point summary of main Step 4 guidance - 20 August

Football Activity master guidance for re-starting outdoor grassroots football - 20 August 

COVID-19 safeguarding risk assessment guidance - 16 July

First Aid guidance for returning to competitive grassroots football - 16 July

National League System club guidance - 16 July

Women's football pyramid club guidance - 16 July