STEP two of the Government's roadmap out of lockdown begins in earnest tomorrow (Monday) – and The Football Association have updated their guidance to reflect the changes of the national restrictions.
The key changes of note are in relation to spectators, use of changing rooms and outdoor hospitality for clubs playing at Step 7 and below.
Here is an outline of the guidelines that come into play tomorrow before step three begins on Monday May 17.
TRAVEL
Participants may travel to games but should avoid the busiest times and routes as well as minimising any unnecessary journeys where possible.
CHANGING ROOMS
Changing rooms can be used, however, participants should minimise their use where possible. Toilets will be allowed to open 30 minutes before and 30 minutes after training and/or matches.
SPECTATORS
Spectators are not permitted to attend sporting events taking place on private land, other than adults needed to supervise U18s that they have a responsibility for, or providing care or assistance to a person with disabilities. They should maintain social distance and not mix with other households.
This, however, does not prevent people from viewing recreational or organised sport that is taking place in a public space, e.g. a park, in groups of up to six people or two households.
Sporting events that are intended to attract spectators (e.g. cup finals), or events that are likely to attract a significant number of spectators, should not take place in a public space, or on private land, until step three comes into play.
PARENTS/CARERS
Where clubs and facilities can accommodate this safely, parents and carers are permitted to be present at football activities, although they must observe the relevant Government guidance, including those on gathering limits for spectators.
INDOOR FOOTBALL
Indoor football for U18s can take place in line with Department for Education and Out of School Setting guidance. All participants should read and follow this guidance for all indoor football activities.
Disabled people can take part in organised outdoor and indoor football without being subject to social contact limits.
Indoor football for adults is not currently allowed. This is planned to return no earlier than May 17.
OUTDOOR HOSPITALITY
Outdoor hospitality at grassroots football is permitted. People using clubhouses and hospitality facilities must adhere to legal gathering limits and wider Government guidance. But while outdoor hospitality is permitted, spectators are not allowed at games, unless on public land.
This guidance applies to all youth and adult football and Futsal.
