Code of Conduct - Little Lever Sports Club

Little Lever Sports Club

Little Lever Sports Club is committed to providing a safe, respectful, inclusive, and positive environment for everyone involved in football.

This Code of Conduct applies to all adult players, parents/carers, coaches, officials, volunteers, and spectators and is issued in line with The FA and Lancashire FA Respect, Safeguarding, Equality, and Facility Compliance requirements.

Club Values & Expectations

All members of Little Lever Sports Club are expected to:

  • Act with integrity, respect, and sportsmanship

  • Promote enjoyment and fair play

  • Support a positive environment for players, officials, volunteers, and spectators

  • Represent the club positively at all times, both on and off the pitch

General Behaviour

(Adults, Parents & Coaches)

All individuals must:

  • Show respect to everyone involved in football

  • Follow FA Rules, competition regulations, and club policies

  • Accept match officials’ decisions without dissent

  • Maintain self-control and appropriate behaviour at all times

  • Foul, abusive, threatening, or discriminatory language or behaviour is strictly prohibited

  • This includes language directed at players, referees, coaches, spectators, or used within earshot of others

Adult Players Code of Conduct

Adult players are expected to:

  • Play fairly and within the Laws of the Game

  • Respect teammates, opponents, referees, and club officials

  • Not use foul or abusive language on or off the pitch

  • Maintain discipline during training and matches

  • Attend training and matches punctually and prepared

Parents, Carers & Spectators

Parents, carers, and spectators must:

  • Encourage all players positively, not just their own

  • Respect referees’ decisions at all times

  • Not shout abuse, criticism, or instructions from the sidelines

  • Foul or abusive language towards anyone will not be tolerated

  • Support coaches, volunteers, and the club constructively

Coaches & Officials

Coaches and officials must:

  • Act as positive role models at all times

  • Put player welfare, safety, and enjoyment first

  • Treat all players fairly and equally

  • Not use or tolerate foul or abusive language

  • Challenge inappropriate behaviour or language immediately

  • Follow FA safeguarding, equality, and respect policies

Safeguarding & Welfare

Little Lever Sports Club adopts and follows The FA Safeguarding Children Policy.

Any safeguarding or welfare concerns must be reported immediately to the Club Welfare Officer or Lancashire FA.

3G Pitch Noise Abatement & Facility Protection

To comply with Lancashire FA guidance, 3G facility operating conditions, and local noise abatement requirements:

  • Footballs must not be kicked against perimeter fencing, rebound fencing, or surrounding structures

  • Balls may only be used during organised training sessions or matches under supervision

  • Unnecessary or avoidable noise must be prevented at all times

  • These rules protect local residents, facilities, and the club’s continued access to 3G pitches

Failure to comply may result in removal from sessions or disciplinary action in line with club and Lancashire FA procedures.

Social Media & Online Conduct

All members must:

  • Not post abusive, offensive, discriminatory, or threatening content

  • Not bring the club into disrepute online

  • Respect the privacy of players, officials, and volunteers

Disciplinary Procedures

Breaches of this Code of Conduct may result in:

  • Verbal or written warnings

  • Match or training suspensions

  • Removal from club activities

  • Termination of membership

  • Referral to Lancashire FA where appropriate

Acceptance

By being involved with Little Lever Sports Club, all members are expected to:

  • Read and understand this Code of Conduct

  • Abide by it at all times

  • Support the club in maintaining a safe and respectful environment

This Code of Conduct is reviewed annually.