Code of Conduct | Players and Spectators
Children play football because they enjoy it and find it fun. Regardless of a child’s skill level, we all share the responsibility to set a positive example and create a supportive environment where children can learn and thrive. By playing your part and respecting
The FA’s Respect Code of Conduct, you help make football enjoyable for everyone.
Key Reminders for Spectators:
- Children play for FUN: Celebrate effort, good play, and achievements.
- Respect the Referee’s decisions: Many referees in grassroots football are young and still learning. Without them, matches couldn’t take place.
- Applaud good play: Appreciate skill and effort from all teams, not just your own.
- Stay in the Designated Spectators’ Area: Remain behind the touchline to ensure a clear and safe playing area.
- Let coaches coach: Avoid giving players conflicting instructions. Support the team by letting the coach handle tactics and direction.
- Foster respect: Encourage respect for opponents, referees, and match officials.
- Support positively: Focus on encouragement rather than criticism.
- Zero tolerance for abuse: Offensive, insulting, or abusive language and behaviour are unacceptable.
Site Rules at Seaham AFC and GSK Coaching:
- No smoking or vaping is allowed on-site.
- No alcohol is permitted unless at a club-organised event with a licensed provider.
- No dogs are allowed, except for guide dogs.
- Dispose of litter in the bins provided, and ensure no bottles or empty bottles are left on the pitch after games.
Upholding the FA Respect Code of Conduct
Seaham AFC and GSK Coaching proudly adhere to and promote The FA’s Respect Code of Conduct. This initiative emphasises the importance of creating a fun, safe, and inclusive environment for players while fostering positive behaviour from adults, parents, spectators, coaches, club officials, and match officials. The FA’s Respect Programme helps educate parents and coaches about their roles in ensuring sustained participation and enjoyment for players and volunteers across all age groups.
Consequences for Not Following the Code
If this code is not followed, the following actions may be taken:
- Verbal warning from a club or league official.
- A meeting with the club, league, or CFA Welfare Officer.
- A meeting with the Club Board Members.
- Requirement to complete an FA education course.
- Removal from the match venue by the club.
- Request to not attend future matches.
- Suspension or removal of club membership.
- Required departure from the club, including any dependents.
Together, let’s ensure football remains a fun, respectful, and inclusive experience for all!
Code of Conduct | Managers and Coaches
All managers and coaches at Seaham AFC and GSK Coaching have a duty of care and are thoroughly screened through Seaham AFC, GSK Coaching, and The FA. Each individual undergoes a comprehensive DBS check to review their history and ensure they are suitable to work with children. No role within Seaham AFC or GSK Coaching will be assigned until this process is fully completed.
Responsibilities of Managers and Coaches:
- Respect for all: Treat everyone equally and with respect, regardless of ability.
- Player wellbeing and safety: Prioritise the health, safety, and welfare of all players above all else.
- Adherence to guidelines: Follow all regulations and guidelines set out by governing bodies.
- Build positive relationships: Develop appropriate working relationships with each player.
- Foster responsibility: Encourage and guide players to take responsibility for their own actions.
- Promote potential: Support players in achieving their full potential.
- Clarity in communication: Clearly explain training exercises and decisions during match days.
- Display professionalism: Consistently exhibit high standards of behaviour towards opponents and referees.
Consequences for Breaching the Code
Failure to adhere to this code of conduct may result in one or more of the following actions:
- Verbal warning from a club or league official.
- Meeting with the club, league, or CFA Welfare Officer.
- Meeting with the Club Board members.
- Requirement to complete an FA education course.
- Removal from the match venue.
- Suspension or removal of club membership.
- Required departure from the club, including any dependents.
- Request from the club to refrain from attending future matches.
By upholding these principles, we create a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment where players can thrive.
Social Events Conduct
From time to time, GSK Coaching and Seaham AFC may organise social events such as presentation evenings, team-building activities, or parents' social gatherings. While these events often take place outside the football environment and training schedule,
the club's rules and Code of Conduct remain fully applicable.
Expectations for Social Events:
- Enjoyment with Responsibility: Everyone is encouraged to enjoy these events, but all parents, players, coaches, and associates must ensure their behavior is respectful and appropriate.
- Moderation in Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol consumption should be moderate and responsible.
- Zero Tolerance for Drugs: The use of classified drugs is strictly prohibited at all club-related events or when representing the club in any capacity.
- Anti-Harassment and Anti-Bullying: The club’s policy on harassment and bullying is fully enforced at all social events.
- Respectful Behavior: Avoid saying or doing anything that could offend, intimidate, threaten, embarrass, or upset others, whether intended as a joke or not.
- Protecting the Club’s Reputation: All attendees must refrain from behavior that could damage the club’s reputation.
Consequences for Breaching the Code
If this code is not followed, the following actions may be taken:
- Verbal warning from a club or league official.
- Meeting with the club, league, or CFA Welfare Officer.
- Meeting with the Club Board members.
- Requirement to complete an FA education course.
- Removal from the venue.
- Suspension or removal of club membership.
- Required departure from the event along with any dependents.
- Request from the club to refrain from attending future events.
By respecting these guidelines, we can ensure that all club events remain enjoyable, inclusive, and reflective of the values of GSK Coaching and Seaham AFC.
Child Protection Policy
GSK Coaching and Seaham AFC are fully committed to safeguarding the welfare of every child and young person entrusted to our care. We aim to provide a safe environment for all members and adhere to The Football Association’s (FA) child protection policies and best practices. A child or young person refers to anyone under the age of 18 participating in any club-related football activity.
Key Principles of The FA Child Protection Policy:
- The welfare of the child is always the top priority.
- All children and young people have the right to protection from abuse, regardless of their age, gender, disability, culture, language, racial origin, religious beliefs, or sexual orientation.
- All suspicions and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and dealt with swiftly and appropriately.
- Partnership is essential: Collaboration with other organisations, parents/carers, children, and young people is crucial to safeguarding.
We believe that every child or young person involved in football should enjoy a safe and supportive environment, free from poor practices and abuse. Safeguarding is the shared responsibility of all adults involved with our club. Safeguarding Responsibilities at GSK Coaching and Seaham AFC. We are dedicated to protecting children and young people from physical, emotional, or sexual harm, as well as neglect or bullying. The FA’s child protection regulations apply to all individuals in football, whether they are in paid or voluntary roles, including:
- Volunteers
- Match officials
- Coaches
- Club officials
- Medical staff
Recruitment and Screening
To ensure the safety of children, we adhere to The FA’s Best Practice Guidelines for recruiting volunteers. We will:
- Develop clear role profiles.
- Request identification documents.
- Conduct interviews and meet applicants wherever possible.
- Obtain and follow up on two references.
- Require an FA DBS Unit Enhanced Disclosure, as appropriate.
All current members of GSK Coaching and Seaham AFC with direct access to children are required to complete a DBS Enhanced Disclosure. If there are concerns about an individual’s suitability, The FA will be consulted for guidance. The FA carefully evaluates any information obtained through DBS disclosures to prioritize the safety and welfare of children. Individuals with a history of relevant and significant offenses will not be permitted to have contact with children or influence youth-related policies or practices.
Zero Tolerance for Bullying
Bullying in any form is unacceptable at GSK Coaching and Seaham AFC. If bullying occurs, incidents will be addressed promptly. Severe cases may result in dismissal from the club.
Reporting Bullying:
- Notify the Club Welfare Officer (CWO) or a board member immediately.
- For serious bullying concerns, contact the CFA Child Protection Officer (CPO).
Whistleblowing Policy
We fully support The FA’s whistleblowing policy, allowing any adult or young person to raise concerns about a colleague. Concerns can be reported to The FA Child Protection Manager.
Welfare Officer and Contact Information
Seaham AFC has appointed a dedicated Club Welfare Officer (CWO) who has completed child protection and best practice training:
Club Welfare Officer (CWO):
Kathryn Mulligan
📧
kathryn@gskcoachingacademy.co.uk
Reporting Concerns
In case of immediate concerns, you can contact:
- Seaham Police: 0345 606 0365 or 101
- Social Care Services: 03000 267 979
- Child Protection in Sport Unit: 📧
cpsu@nspcc.org.uk
- NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000 | 📧
help@nspcc.org.uk
FA Safeguarding Team
📞 0800 169 1863
📧
safeguarding@TheFA.com
Together, we can create a safe, enjoyable, and inclusive environment for all children and young people in football.
Equality Policy
Football is a game for everyone. As the governing body, The Football Association (FA) is responsible for setting the standards and values that ensure equality, inclusion, and respect at every level of the sport. GSK Coaching and Seaham AFC fully endorse these principles, striving to eliminate discrimination and promote equality in all activities.
Commitment to Equality
GSK Coaching and Seaham AFC are dedicated to:
- Ensuring football is accessible and enjoyable for all who wish to participate.
- Confronting and eliminating discrimination based on gender, sexual orientation, marital status, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion, belief, ability, or disability.
- Treating all individuals fairly and with respect, recognising and addressing inequalities, and providing opportunities for everyone to engage in football.
This policy is fully supported by the Club Officers, who are responsible for its implementation.
Zero Tolerance for Discrimination
GSK Coaching and Seaham AFC do not tolerate harassment, bullying, abuse, or victimisation, including but not limited to:
- Sexual or racially based harassment.
- Verbal or physical discriminatory behaviour.
Appropriate action will be taken to address any incidents of discrimination.
Positive Action and Awareness
The club is committed to:
- Taking proactive steps to address inequalities.
- Developing ongoing training and awareness programs to promote equality in football.
- Adhering to the requirements of equality legislation, including the
Race Relations Act 1976,
Sex Discrimination Act 1975, and
Disability Discrimination Act 1995, along with any amendments or subsequent laws.#
Reporting Discrimination
If a member believes they have been discriminated against or that the club’s policies, rules, or Code of Conduct have been violated, they should follow these steps:
- Report the Incident:
- Submit a report to the Club Secretary or a Committee member, including:
- Details of the incident (what, when, where).
- Witness statements and names, if applicable.
- Names of others who may have experienced similar treatment.
- Details of any previous complaints about the incident (date, to whom it was made).
- A preferred resolution to the incident.
- Investigation and Hearing:
- The Club’s Management Committee will review the report and conduct a hearing if necessary.
- The Committee has the authority to:
- Issue warnings regarding future conduct.
- Suspend membership.
- Remove membership from any individual found in violation of the club’s policies or Code of Conduct.
- Escalation:
- If the complaint involves the Club’s Management Committee, the member may report the issue directly to the relevant County Football Association.
Our Shared Responsibility
Football belongs to everyone, and the responsibility to uphold its values lies with all of us. By treating each other with respect and eliminating discrimination, we can ensure the game is inclusive, enjoyable, and fair for all.
- GSK Coaching and Seaham AFC will continue to champion equality, diversity, and respect in football, in alignment with The Football Association’s commitment to these principles.
Training and Match Day Advice
To ensure the smooth operation of our club and provide the best environment for all, GSK Coaching and Seaham AFC expects the following:
General Conduct
- Follow The FA Respect Code of Conduct for players, parents, and supporters.
- Support the team and club in a positive manner, both on and off the pitch.
- Applaud good play from both teams and respect all participants, including opponents and officials.
Players
- Wear appropriate footwear and shin pads for all matches and training sessions.
- Bring a bottle of water to every match and training session to stay hydrated.
- Attend all training sessions regularly, as missing sessions may affect match selection.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before kick-off to allow for proper warm-up and team preparation.
- Players with asthma must provide a named inhaler to their coach or manager during all sessions and matches.
Parents/Carers
- Ensure players are dropped off and picked up promptly for training sessions.
- Refrain from coaching your child or any players from the sidelines during training or matches—this is the role of the manager. Overloading players with instructions can cause confusion.
- Respond promptly to messages from your child’s manager regarding training or matches. Lack of communication may result in game cancellations or players being assumed unavailable.
Attendance and Punctuality
- Consistent attendance and punctuality are crucial. Players who miss training sessions or are repeatedly late may not start or play in the next match.
By working together and respecting these guidelines, we can create a supportive, positive, and enjoyable football experience for all.
Club Subs & Signing Fee
Signing-On Fee
- Cost: £100, payable upfront.
- Payment Options: The fee can be spread across multiple months if needed.
- What’s Included: The signing-on fee covers an administrative fee, a full kit, and a drill top.
- Additional Items: Training wear, backpacks, and umbrellas can be purchased through the club shop at Total Sport.
Monthly Membership Fee
- Cost: £30 per month.
- Payment Arrangement: Payments can be organised by contacting your team coach.
By making payment, you agree to the terms and conditions outlined below.
Payment Policy – Traffic Light System
- Green: After 7 days of non-payment, the club will send a polite reminder.
- Amber: After 14 days of non-payment, a final reminder will be issued.
- Red: After 28 days of non-payment, the player will be suspended until the account is brought up to date.
Note: If you are facing financial difficulties, inform your team manager or the club immediately to discuss alternative arrangements.
Policy for Players Leaving or Team Disbandment
- Subs Payment: Membership fees are due until the date of the final match or training session, regardless of attendance.
- Kit/Equipment Return:
- All club-badged kit and equipment must be returned as it is the property of Seaham AFC.
- Personalised items (e.g., named kits) do not need to be returned.
- Failure to return club property will result in a debt that must be settled before the player can sign for another club.
Financial Obligations When Leaving
- Players leaving the club for another must secure permission from Seaham AFC.
- Permission will not be granted until all financial matters are resolved.
Why Membership Fees Are Essential
All Seaham AFC officials, managers, and coaches are volunteers. Membership fees are crucial to cover the operational costs of the club, including:
- Pitch Hire: For winter training on artificial pitches or indoor facilities.
- Pitch Maintenance: For local council and club-owned pitches.
- Equipment Costs: Maintenance and renewal of match gear.
- Referee Fees, Insurance, and League Affiliation.
- Coaching Development: Funding football professional development courses.
- Presentation Nights and Trophies.
Payment Timing and Options
- Membership fees are collected monthly.
- Temporary cash payments may be arranged if you experience technical difficulties with payment systems.
- Changes to payment collection methods may occur, but 28 days' notice will be provided.
If you have any concerns or questions, please don’t hesitate to contact your team manager or a club representative. Your cooperation helps ensure the smooth running of Seaham AFC and supports a positive experience for all players.
Medical Form
