A pilot for this new training programme, initially for referees, is being run at Leicester University. The course will clarify the sort of language that, if used, must mean disciplinary action is taken.

This pilot is part of The FA’s overall Football for All programme that is committed to fighting racism at all levels and making the game more inclusive. The pilot will take place on Thursday 22 April 2004 commencing at 5pm.

The FA’s Report Racism Helpline was launched recently and a film launched detailing experiences of some players who had suffered racial abuse.

Report Racism on 0800 085 0508 or FootballforAll@TheFA.com

At the pilot guidance will be provided for referees under Law 12: Fouls and Misconduct

Definition of racism

Racism is the belief that people are inferior, because they are:

– A different colour, or
– From a different country or part of the world, or
– Have different religious beliefs

Racism is a prejudice or judgement, which is based solely on ignorance.

What the Law says …

Chanting of a Racialist Nature is unlawful

· Chanting

– Repeated uttering of words
– Whether alone or with others

· Racialist

– Threatening, abusive, insulting
– Reference to colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origins

What The Football Association says ……

It is a sending off offence if a player uses offensive or insulting or abusive languages and /or gestures.

Action

Listen out yourself

– Individual chanting
– Group chanting

A report of racism?

– Do be calm, courteous and sensitive
– Do listen to the complainant
– Do acknowledge the complaint
– Do not ignore it or turn a deaf ear

Referring reports

Racist incidents by players and substitute players

– If you witness a racist incident it then you must act in accordance with Law 12 and send off the offending player and include the actual words used in your misconduct report as normal

– If you do not witness it but are told of an incident you should take details and report it to The Football Association or County Football Association as appropriate.

– You should also advise people to report it to their Club Secretary, their County FA or to The FA by email at footballforall@TheFA.com or through a freephone reporting no 0800 085 0508

Racist incidents by other people within the football environment

– You may witness racist incidents involving people other than players and substitutes you should take details and include it in your report

– If you do not witness it but are told of an incident you should take details and report it to the Football Association or County Football Association as appropriate.

– You should also advise people to report it to their Club Secretary, their County FA or to The FA by email at footballforall@TheFA.com or through a freephone reporting no 0800 085 0508

– The FA and County FA's will investigate all allegations of racist abuse not reported by the referee and can impose sanctions such as fines, match bans and permanent suspension from the game.