England Football Accredited

Football leagues and clubs accredited by The FA have positively changed the football landscape over the last 20 years. They create the ideal environments to nurture players, coaches and volunteers. The result is greater diversity and inclusivity through football. England Football Accredited replaces The FA Charter Standard and is the next chapter in this amazing story as we unite even more communities by supporting Leagues and Clubs over the next ten years.

FA Accreditation is awarded to clubs and leagues that are well run, sustainable and importantly place child protection, quality coaching and safety paramount. As a benchmark for quality, it will improve the playing experience for all.

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There are three star ratings for FA Accreditation for clubs to recognize the different pathways.

The entry level is an FA Accredited 1 Star Club, the next level is an FA Accredited 2 Star Club and the most advanced FA Accredited 3 Star Club. Each advanced level requires additional criteria to be met. Any club can apply for FA Accreditation status, even a one-team club. The criteria is challenging, but is attainable for every club. Once awarded, FA Accredited 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 and a volunteer co-ordinator.

The benefits for an FA Accreditation you will receive Nike footballs and kit vouchers each season after renewal has been completed. Accredited clubs will be able to access other opportunities such as the Club Programme, Club House and be prioritised for other investments.

The ‘hidden’ benefits are key to most clubs working towards the kite-mark. By achieving FA Accreditation, you are demonstrating to all members, parents, sponsors and the public, that you are a well-organised, safe club offering opportunities for all.

The accreditation lasts for one season and will be renewed each year as part of the club re-affiliation process.

The accreditation star level can be withdrawn if a is unable to continue to meet the criteria.