The RA Welfare Team will:

  • Listen, empathise and understand
  • Support Members by offering advice to benefit their welfare, mental and physical health
  • Work in partnership with the Representation Team to aid support
  • Sign-post members to organisations that can offer both help and support
  • Guide referees (and parents of young referees) through the process of reporting incidents to the County FA and personal hearings.
  • Advise on possible applications to the RA Benevolent Fund
  • Run campaigns and lobby the FA

The Team also runs campaigns and lobbies the FA on various topics which include changing the way that referee assaults are dealt with by the police and the courts.

Top tips from the Teams:


  • Contact the RA Representation/Welfare Teams as soon as you are aware that there is a complaint
  • Do not reply to a letter from your County FA or the FA before speaking to the RA for advice
  • Request/preserve evidence ASAP- from witnesses/opponents. Check if any video footage is available
  • Write down your own recollections in detail immediately
  • Assault cases – report these to the police and secure a crime report number. Be aware that publicity/social media posts could result in contempt of court
  • NO social media posts as this will attract unwanted interest
  • If you are struggling emotionally, mentally or financially then contact the RA

The RA Welfare hotline number is 07718 485892 or email welfare@the-ra.org.

Meet the board

Upcoming events

Our Partnerships

Partnerships are often formed between individuals, agencies or organisations with a shared interest to address specific issues. Our evidence reveals that our members young and old often require mental, emotional, financial, medical help, support and guidance. The Referees’ Association champion the work of those agencies that provide this support in times of need. Should you require support please contact the relevant agency below or the RA Head Office.
Learn more

Join the Referees Association

The National RA recommends that prospective members should join through their local LRA, the easiest way being to attend one of the many local association meetings that take place across the country on a regular (usually monthly) basis. Find your nearest branch now.

Alternatively, online membership is now available for any referee who wishes to take up central membership. The National RA will then allocate you a local branch. Join now.