Please be aware that improper online conduct may lead to disciplinary action

Both the FA nationally and at County level have received a number of complaints in relation to postings on various sites such as Twitter and Facebook. Consequently the FA has issued guidelines to remind all members, including clubs, officials and players, for reference when using such sites:

• All comments on Social Networking sites may be considered public comment by the FA and County FA
• Any comments which are improper, bring the game into disrepute or are threatening, abusive indecent or insulting may lead to disciplinary action
• Comments about match officials which imply bias, attack the officials' integrity or are personal in nature are considered improper.
• Comments which include reference to a person's ethnic origin, colour, race, nationality, faith, gender, sexual orientation or disability may be considered aggravated and attract a higher disciplinary sanction.
• Re-tweeting another person's post may lead to disciplinary action if the original comment was improper
• Deleting or apologizing publicly for improper posting, whilst advisable, does not prevent disciplinary action being taken.
• An individual is strictly responsible for any posting on his/her account. Participants should take every care to ensure that others do not access their account, as the fact that a posting or comment may be made by a third party will not prevent disciplinary action being taken against the account holder.

While the FA is conscious that the use of social networking sites can be positive, participants should exercise caution with the content of any posting. Participants are required to act in the best interests of the game at all times.

Responsible use of Social Media Networks - Download / Open