West Riding FA: Supporting MATCH OFFICIALS and Participants Affected by Discrimination

At West Riding FA, we echo The Football Association’s (FA) firm stance that all acts of discrimination—whether verbal, physical, or online—are offensive, harmful, and unacceptable. Discrimination undermines dignity, erodes mental well-being, and can have lasting impacts on individuals and their communities.

Open to all

Match Officials, as well as all football participants, play a critical role in our game. Unfortunately, match officials are increasingly targeted with discriminatory abuse, which can have significant emotional and mental health consequences. No one should fear discrimination while officiating or participating in football, and West Riding FA is dedicated to supporting victims and holding perpetrators accountable.

Specialist support in partnership with Sporting Chance

To recognise and address the profound impact of discriminatory abuse, the FA has partnered with Sporting Chance to provide tailored, compassionate support. This FA-funded provision is designed to meet the specific needs of match officials and other football participants across grassroots football who experience such abuse—whether directly, indirectly, or online.

Through a national network of qualified therapists, counsellors, and psychiatrists, Sporting Chance offers confidential mental health and emotional well-being services. This provision is flexible, ensuring support is accessible and delivered appropriately.

Key features:

• Between one and six counselling sessions, with additional sessions considered in exceptional cases.
• A personalised initial assessment to understand the incident and its impact.
• Confidential and safe spaces to speak openly with skilled professionals.
• Support in processing the incident within the context of your broader life.
• Practical advice on self-care and emotional well-being strategies.

While face-to-face counselling is the preferred method, support can also be provided online where necessary.

We’re here for you

At West Riding FA, we take our responsibility to protect the mental and emotional well-being of match officials and all football participants seriously. Discrimination has no place in our game, and we will continue to take decisive action against those who commit such offences while offering vital support to those affected.