GCGL policy
Protection of Match Officials and Zero-Tolerance Policy
A clear commitment to protect referees and ensure that unacceptable conduct has meaningful consequences.
Zero tolerance does not mean no process. Reports will be handled fairly, evidence will be considered and action will be proportionate. It means abuse of match officials will never be dismissed as simply part of the game.
1. Our commitment
GCGL will support referees and other match officials against abuse, threats, intimidation, discrimination and persistent unacceptable behaviour. Everyone participating in a GCGL competition is expected to treat match officials with respect.
2. Who is responsible
Clubs are responsible for the conduct of their players, coaches, team officials and spectators. Club officers must take reasonable steps to prevent misconduct, intervene safely where appropriate and cooperate fully with reports or investigations.
3. Reporting an incident
Match officials should record what happened as soon as possible, retain relevant messages, photographs or video, and submit all required misconduct or safeguarding reports through the appropriate FA and League channels. Immediate danger should be reported to the emergency services.
4. League action
The League may gather information, refer matters to Gloucestershire FA, apply competition rules and take proportionate action within its authority. Serious cases may result in interim restrictions while the matter is considered.
5. Disciplinary consequences
Consequences may escalate according to the seriousness, frequency and circumstances of the conduct. They may include formal warnings, conditions of participation, venue or spectator restrictions, suspension from League activity and referral for disciplinary action.
6. Exclusion from the competition
Where behaviour is serious, persistent or presents an unacceptable risk, the League may—as a last resort and within its rules and authority—exclude an individual, team or club from GCGL competitions.
7. Young referees
Concerns involving a referee under 18 must be treated with particular care and escalated through the League’s safeguarding procedures. Clubs and team officials must recognise that a young referee is a child and respond accordingly.
8. Welfare and follow-up
The affected referee will be offered support through the GCGL League Welfare Officer and appropriate Referees’ Association contacts. The League will follow up where practicable and explain the next steps available.
How to get help
For League support, email gcglreferees@gmail.com. Safeguarding concerns should also follow the League and FA safeguarding reporting procedures.