The FA Charter Standard programme supported by McDonald's is a
kitemark, which recognises and rewards high quality levels of
provision in club and league football. The kitemark is awarded to
clubs and leagues that are well run, sustainable, which place child
protection, quality coaching and safety paramount.
The FA Charter Standard kitemark was launched in 2001 and now has
6800 clubs, with 653 advanced level Community Clubs and 300
leagues. The kitemark is a major focus of The FA's £200 million FA
National Game Strategy and has improved coaching, the number of
girls' football teams and safeguarding children.
There are three levels of FA Charter Standard Awards for clubs to
recognise the different standards. The entry level is an 'FA
Charter Standard Club', the next level is an 'FA Charter Standard
Development Club' and the most advanced 'FA Charter Standard
Community Club'. Each advanced level requires additional criteria
to be met.
Any club can apply for FA Charter Standard status, even a one-team
club. The criteria is challenging, but is attainable for every
club. Once awarded, FA Charter Standard clubs and leagues are given
an annual health check to ensure the standards of provision are
maintained.
Criteria for achieving the entry level award include:
- having a trained Welfare Officer
- CRB checks for all volunteers
- Emergency Aid-trained volunteers linked to each team
- Respect programme sign-up
- a Level One coach for each youth team
- appropriate club administration in place
- a volunteer co-ordinator
"The most important benefit of becoming a Charter Standard Club
is showing the world you're serious about raising standards,
improving facilities, football coaching, first aid and child
protection. Charter Standard shows potential new members that your
football club cares" Essex FA.
McDonald's KickStart Grants can help your club to reach these
criteria, offering £500 - £2500 grants towards costs such as
coaching / training courses, Respect barriers and other ground
facilities.
The benefits for an FA Charter Standard club include free tickets
upon application for England youth and women's internationals,
local in-service FA/McDonald's coaching events, administration
support sessions and support with funding applications.
The 'hidden' benefits are key to most clubs working towards the
kitemark. By achieving an FA Charter Standard Club Award, you are
demonstrating to all members, parents, sponsors and the public,
that you are a well-organised, safe Club offering opportunities for
all.
To apply, clubs must complete an application form and return it to
your County FA with the requested supporting evidence. The
application will be assessed by the County FA nominated officer.
Feedback will be obtained from the leagues that your club plays in
to ensure that your club displays the high levels expected of an FA
Charter Standard Club.
